Located 25 miles north west of Chicago's Loop the village of Northbrook dates it's founding to the mid 1830's. Like so many Chicago suburbs, Northbrook first began to grow with the arrival of the railroad. Where original residents sought out Northbrook (officially known as Shermerville until 1923) for its rich farmland, later arrivals established businesses to seve the growing community. Early industries included local brickyards which contributed to the rebuilding of Chicago after the Great Fire of 1871.

Northbrook expanded rapidly in the years following World War II. Newcomers were attracted by the friendly, small-town atmosphere as well as the many cultural and recreational opportunities. Today, the community is justifiably proud of its excellent schools, extensive parks and recreation system and village organizations such as the Northbrook Arts Commission, the Civic Foundation and Historical Society. The award-winning Northbrook Symphony Orchestra performs at the Sheely Center for the Performing Arts at Glenbrook North High School. The public also enjoy Arts In Northbrook, the summerime outdoor festival which includes artists from around the world and top entertainment. Residents also enjoy excellent shopping in the traditional Village Center as well as Northbrook Court Shopping Mall and 10 other shopping centers. Northbrook is a bike ride away from the beautiful Skokie Lagoons, the impressive Chicago Botanical Garden and many forest preserves. The Village is home to Glenbrook Hospital, part of the Evanston Northwestern Healthcare system. Glenbrook is also a partner with Children's Memorial Hospital.

Parks and Recreation. The Northbrook Park District was the first in the United Stated to be accredited by the National Recreation and Park Association. Activities for all ages include early childhood and preschool programs, summer camps, two outdoor aquatic centers, athletic and fitness programs and three golf courses. The park sponsors Tuesday night concerts in the park with live music and local food vendors in the summer. The Park District also offers seasonal cross county skiing and snowshoeing as well as nationally known figure skating and hockey programs. Facilities include the Northbrook Theater, home to an extensive performing arts program, a senior center and the Ed Rudloph Veledrome, one of only 14 quarter-mile cycling bike tracks in the United States. The Village is also home to the YMCA, JCC and many other health and country clubs. The recently expanded Northbrook Library is an excellent facility and offers interesting programs and a quarter of million items.

Schools. Northbrook students attend Northbrook Elementary School Districts 27, 28, 30, or 31. High School students attend Glenbrook North High School in Distict 225. Student scores on state and national testing are consistently above average. Located on a 72-acre campus-like setting, Glenbrook North High School has won numerous awards for scholastic and athletic achievement. Over 97% of graduating seniors go on to college. Private education opportunities from pre-school to high school are also available.

Housing. Older homes near the town center include colonial, ranch and bungalow styles, while newer homes on the east and far west sides of the village are a mix of impressive traditional and comtemporary designs. A number of newer condomuiniums and townhomes are also available. Prices ranges from $200,000 to multi-million dollar estates.

Transportation. Northbrook residents are served by Metra trains to the city and PACE busses in the suburbs. Easy access to I-94 (Edens Expressway) and I-294 (Tri-State) are available. O'Hare Airport is approximately 20 minutes drive and Midway approximately one hour. Great America Theme Park is only a 30 minute drive away.