West Chicago, IL is a community of necessity. Formed in the mid-1800’s, West Chicago was originally a junction of several railroads as the Galena & Chicago Union Railroad (predecessor of the Chicago & North Western, now the Union Pacific) built westward from Chicago. By 1850, three railroads converged in the growing community.
With the increasing rail traffic came jobs, housing, hospitality, and commerce. Chicago railroad owner John B. Turner platted several acres of land in what is now the downtown, bestowing the name “Junction”. Another investor did likewise with an adjacent parcel, naming it “Turner”. Eventually the area became known as “Turner Junction”. The name gave way to West Chicago just prior to the turn of the century.
West Chicago has a robust economic climate with a healthy industrial base. Its proximity to efficient rail transport continues to fuel the growth of manufacturers and distributors, providing a sturdy economic foundation and quality jobs.
West Chicago’s zip code is 60185.