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Wheaton is a suburban city located approximately 30 miles west of downtown Chicago in DuPage County, Illinois. With a population of over 53,000 residents, it is one of the largest and most historic cities in the western suburbs of Chicago.

Population and Demographics

According to the Wikipedia page for Wheaton, the city had an estimated population of 53,230 as of 2021. This makes it the second largest city in DuPage County after Naperville. The racial makeup of Wheaton is approximately 75% White, 11% Asian, 7% Hispanic/Latino, 4% Black and 3% mixed race or other.

Wheaton has seen steady population growth since its early beginnings in the 1800s. It grew rapidly in the post-World War II era as Chicago suburbs expanded. The city's convenient access to highways, Metra commuter rail, and proximity to major employers have made it an attractive place to live and work.

History of Wheaton

Wheaton was founded in 1837 by Warren and Jesse Wheaton. The Wheaton brothers traveled from New York with the vision of establishing a town on the frontier. They saw potential in the strategic location between the towns of Geneva and Naperville, which were connected by an old Indian trail. In 1848, the Galena and Chicago Union Railroad was constructed near the center of town, cementing Wheaton's importance as a railroad stop and regional trading hub.

The community was officially incorporated as a village in 1859 with a population of 1,300 residents. Prominent judge and politician Glover Johnson was elected as the first village president. The following decades saw growth and development as downtown businesses opened along Front Street near the railroad tracks. Wheaton was also home to Wheaton College, a Christian liberal arts college established in 1860.

By the late 1800s, the population had grown to nearly 2,000 residents. Wheaton was incorporated as a city in 1887. In the 1950s, Wheaton experienced another population boom as the suburbs expanded and automobiles became more prevalent. During this era many historic homes were replaced by mid-century development. However, preservation efforts in the 1970s renewed interest in Wheaton's Victorian architecture and history.

Today, Wheaton embraces its heritage while continuing to evolve as a modern suburban community. It offers access to major metro areas while retaining a classic small town charm.

Attractions and Landmarks

The Wheaton History Center

The Wheaton History Center is the perfect place to learn about the rich history and cultural heritage of Wheaton. Located in the historic 1848 Chicago and Northwestern Railroad Depot, the History Center features exhibits on local history, architecture, and decorative arts. Visitors can take a self-guided tour to view artifacts, photos, drawings, furniture and more. The History Center also offers educational school programs and family events throughout the year.

Wheaton History Center
603 N Main St
Wheaton, IL 60187
Phone: (630) 510-4941

Cantigny Park

Covering over 500 acres, Cantigny Park is a beautiful recreation area that was once the estate of Chicago Tribune owner Robert R. McCormick. The park features gardens, museums, shopping, dining and more. Visitors can explore the Robert R. McCormick Museum, First Division Museum, formal gardens, 27-hole golf course and walking trails. Cantigny Park also hosts special events, concerts and classes throughout the year.

Cantigny Park
1s151 Winfield Rd
Wheaton, IL 60189
Phone: (630) 668-5161

Danada House and Forest Preserve

The historic Danada House and Forest Preserve offers visitors over 700 acres of prairieland, woods and wetlands to explore. The Danada House is an elegant 30-room French-style mansion that hosts tours and special events. Outdoor recreational opportunities include hiking, biking, horseback riding, fishing and more. The forest preserve also features the Danada Equestrian Center with boarding, lessons and riding trails.

Danada House and Forest Preserve
3S501 Naperville Rd
Wheaton, IL 60189
Phone: (630) 668-6012

Economy and Major Employers

Wheaton benefits from a diverse economic base of industries and major employers. According to the city's website, top private sector employers include:

• Aldi Corporate Office - Address: 1200 N Main St, Wheaton, IL 60187 - Phone: (630) 879-8100
• Beam Suntory - Address: 510 Lake Cook Rd, Wheaton, IL 60189 - Phone: (630) 573-4660
• Fort Dearborn Company - Address: 720 E Butterfield Rd #300E, Wheaton, IL 60189 - Phone: (630) 784-6000
• Inland Real Estate Group - Address: 2905 Butterfield Rd Oak Brook, IL 60523 - Phone: (630) 218-8000
• John B Sanfilippo & Son Inc. - Address: 1703 S Jefferson St, Wheaton, IL 60187 - Phone: (708) 967-3010
• Mariano's - Address: 602 Roosevelt Rd, Wheaton, IL 60187 - Phone: (630) 462-1384

Other major employers in Wheaton reflect its position as the DuPage County seat. Government offices and the county court system provide many jobs for local residents.

Transportation

Wheaton enjoys convenient transportation access. The Metra Union Pacific / West Line provides commuter rail service between Wheaton and downtown Chicago with a station located downtown. Pace bus service offers public transportation within Wheaton and neighboring suburbs.

For drivers, Wheaton is easily accessible via major highways including I-355, I-88, and I-290. O'Hare and Midway airports are within 45 minutes of Wheaton. The city's proximity to transportation networks has made it an ideal suburb for Chicago commuters.

Public Library

The Wheaton Public Library serves community members with a wide range of services and resources. The original library building, a Carnegie library dating to 1903, still stands on Cross Street. The modern library moved to its present location at 225 N. Cross Street in the late 1950s. Today, the library offers books, media, computer access, programs for all ages and a maker space.

Wheaton Public Library
225 N. Cross St.
Wheaton, IL 60187
Phone: (630) 868-7599

Schools

Wheaton is part of Community Unit School District 200 which covers elementary through high school education. District 200 operates twelve elementary schools, four middle schools and two high schools serving the communities of Wheaton and Warrenville. The district website is www.cusd200.org.

Wheaton is also home to several private K-12 schools such as St. Mary Catholic School, Wheaton Academy, and Timothy Christian Schools. Higher education includes the well-regarded Wheaton College, alma mater of evangelist Billy Graham and former Speaker of the House Dennis Hastert.

Museums and Cultural Attractions

Wheaton offers enriching cultural institutions and museums for visitors to enjoy. The Robert R. McCormick Museum at Cantigny Park celebrates the life of the longtime editor and publisher of the Chicago Tribune. The DuPage County Historical Museum located north of downtown explores natural history, archaeology and changing exhibits. Art lovers can browse the Fine Arts Center which offers art classes and exhibits.

For live performances, the classic McAninch Arts Center located on the campus of the College of DuPage hosts theater, music and dance productions in an architecturally renowned facility.

Facebook

Engage with the Wheaton community online by following the city's Facebook page. Get updates on local events, news, weather alerts, city meetings and more.

Local Sports

Wheaton is home to several sports teams that the community passionately supports. The Wheaton Thunder minor league baseball team plays at Wheaton Stadium. Wheaton College fields 19 varsity sports teams known as the Wheaton Thunder that compete in NCAA Division III. Additionally, the Danada Riding Club at the Danada Forest Preserve offers equestrian sports and equine programs.

Additional Local Resources

Learn more about Wheaton by visiting the websites of key organizations:

• City of Wheaton - Official municipal government website
• DuPage County - County government website
• Downtown Wheaton Association - Information on local businesses and events
• Wheaton Chamber of Commerce - Local business organization

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