Gilberts, IL
County: Kane
History
Gilberts is a village located in Kane County, Illinois, in the United States. It is situated approximately 45 miles northwest of downtown Chicago. The history of Gilberts begins in the mid-1800s when the area was predominantly farmland.
The village is named after its founder, Sylvester Gilbert, who settled in the area in 1839. Gilbert, a farmer from Vermont, purchased over 80 acres of land and built a log cabin near the present-day intersection of Higgins and Gilberts Roads. His cabin served as a stopping point for travelers and became known as "Gilbert's Corners." Eventually, the area began to develop as more settlers arrived.
In the late 19th century, the railroad played a significant role in the growth of Gilberts. The Chicago and Pacific Railroad (later known as the Elgin, Joliet and Eastern Railway) constructed a railroad line through the village, providing transportation and creating opportunities for economic development. The establishment of a rail depot in Gilberts further promoted growth and commerce in the area.
In the early 1900s, Gilberts became a focal point for local agriculture, as it was surrounded by farmland that produced crops such as corn, wheat, and oats. The village's economy relied heavily on farming and agricultural-related activities.
Over the years, Gilberts gradually transformed from an agricultural community into a residential suburb. The population began to increase during the 1960s and 1970s, and more housing developments were built to accommodate the growing number of residents. Today, Gilberts is a small but thriving community with a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial areas.
In recent years, the village has experienced significant growth and development. New subdivisions, shopping centers, and recreational facilities have been constructed, attracting new residents and businesses to the area. Despite these changes, Gilberts has managed to maintain its small-town charm and rural character, evident in the preservation of open spaces and its community-focused events.
Overall, Gilberts' history reflects its evolution from a rural farming community to a modern suburban village, while still embracing its agricultural roots.
Attractions
Gilberts Town Square
A local gathering place with shops, restaurants, and green space for outdoor activities.
Fox River Forest Preserve
A scenic nature preserve with hiking trails, fishing spots, and picnic areas.
Marengo Ridge Conservation Area
A beautiful wooded area with hiking trails, horseback riding, and a small lake for fishing.
Santa's Village Azoosment Park
A family-friendly amusement park with rides, petting zoo, and live animal shows.
Fox River Trolley Museum
A museum featuring vintage trolley cars and offering rides along the Fox River.
Gilberts Community Park
A spacious park with playgrounds, sports fields, and walking paths.
Burnidge Forest Preserve
A large nature reserve with trails, a fishing pond, and an off-leash dog area.
Randall Oaks Zoo
A small zoo in nearby West Dundee, featuring a variety of animals and interactive exhibits.
Bonnie Dundee Golf Club
A golf course with beautiful views and a challenging layout.
Epic Air Trampoline Park
A fun indoor trampoline park with trampoline dodgeball, foam pits, and basketball hoops.
Climate
The climate of Gilberts, Illinois is categorized as a continental climate, which means it experiences four distinct seasons throughout the year. Summers in Gilberts are typically warm and humid, with average high temperatures ranging from the mid-80s to low 90s Fahrenheit (27-32 degrees Celsius). However, heatwaves with temperatures exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius) are not uncommon. The area also experiences occasional thunderstorms during the summer months.
Winters in Gilberts are generally cold, with average high temperatures in the 30s and 40s Fahrenheit (0-7 degrees Celsius). Snowfall is common during the winter, with an average of around 30 inches (76 centimeters) per year. January is usually the coldest month, with temperatures dropping below freezing, often into the teens or single digits.
Spring and autumn in Gilberts are characterized by mild temperatures and changing foliage. Spring brings pleasant weather, with temperatures gradually warming up, while autumn sees a gradual decrease in temperatures and the vibrant colors of leaves changing.
Overall, Gilberts experiences a wide range of temperatures throughout the year due to its continental climate, with hot summers and cold winters.
Neighborhoods
Gilberts is a village located in Kane County, Illinois. While it is a relatively small community, there are a few distinct neighborhoods within Gilberts. Here are some of them:
Gilberts Town Center
This is the heart of the village, where you'll find the municipal offices, the local police department, and the community park. It is a quaint and charming area with a mix of residential and commercial properties.
Timber Trails
Located just north of the Town Center, Timber Trails is a popular neighborhood that offers a range of housing options. It has a suburban feel with well-maintained homes and tree-lined streets. There are also parks, walking trails, and open green spaces for residents to enjoy.
Conservancy
Situated in the western part of Gilberts, the Conservancy neighborhood is known for its beautiful landscapes and open spaces. Many homes in this area are surrounded by nature preserves, offering a peaceful and scenic environment for residents. The neighborhood also has a community center and a pond.
Highland Grove
Located on the eastern side of the village, Highland Grove is a newer neighborhood that offers modern, single-family homes. It features well-designed streets, landscaped yards, and a sense of community. The neighborhood is close to Gilberts Elementary School, making it an attractive choice for families with young children.
Gilberts Glen
Gilberts Glen is another newer neighborhood located in the southern part of the village. It offers a mix of townhomes and single-family homes with various amenities such as parks, playgrounds, and walking trails. The neighborhood boasts a suburban atmosphere and is within proximity to shopping centers and restaurants.
Overall, Gilberts is a family-friendly community with a range of neighborhoods catering to different lifestyles. Whether you prefer a small-town feel, a nature-centric environment, or a newer development, Gilberts has something to offer for everyone.