The river and early neighborhoods
Potawatomi communities lived along this part of the Des Plaines River long before the village was established. In the nineteenth century, a crossing near what became Grand Avenue helped connect the area to neighboring settlements.
East of the river, the community was known first as Cazenovia and later as Turner Park. The Rhodes subdivision developed south of Grand Avenue in the 1870s. These neighborhoods came together when River Grove incorporated in 1888.
A lasting sense of place
The river, residential streets and open spaces remain defining parts of River Grove's character. Its history is not only a list of dates: it is also the story of the people who built homes, businesses and local institutions here.
There is more to discover in the village's parks, public spaces and community organizations. For current programs and visitor information, start with the official village website.