From its rustic beginnings as a small farming community, Northfield has grown into a stylish suburb known for its charming homes, top schools and beautiful natural setting. Located seventeen miles north of Chicago's Loop and about three miles west of Lake Michigan, Northfield is considered part of the elegant North Shore. Bordered on the east by the Skokie Lagoons and Forest Preserve and on the south by Erickson Woods, the Village offers easy access to acres of parks and recreational areas.

Originally settled in the mid 19th Century, Northfield experienced its first major growth with the arrival of the Railroad in the early 1920s. The Village was incorporated in 1926 and officially named Northfield the following year. The Northfield Historical Society operates a virtual web site at www.northfieldhistoricalsociety.com which maintains a comprehensive database on every historic home in the community.

The Village grew steadily beginning in the 1930s as suburbanites discovered its tranquil charm and excellent facilities. Northfield residents project a quiet pride in their community and are actively involved in numerous civic and community and educational organizations. Within its three square miles, the Village offers a variety of charming shops, dining options and professional services.

Parks and Recreation. The Northfield Park District was established in 1957 by Northfield residents and teacher Jim Clarkson. After many years of operating out of a local school classroom, the Park District moved to the superb new Northfield Community Center in 1998. The Community Center offers a good example of the spirit of cooperation that exists in the Village, being a three-part venture involving the Park District, the Village of Northfield and School District 29.

Facilities in addition to the Community Center include Clarkson Park and Willow Park Sports Field which offers playing fields for football, baseball, basketball and soccer. A gym, tennis courts, batting cages and outdoor ice-skating rinks are also available. Residents can choose from 170 classes and programs for all ages.

Schools. Northfield schools, which enjoy a reputation for top achievement, are ofter called the "Crown Jewel" of the community. Students benefit from a low student-teacher ratio and strong spending-per-pupil. Elementary students are severed by school districts 29, 34, and 37. High School students attend the award-winning New Trier High School in District 203, in neighboring Winnetka. Private education opportunities from pre-school to high school are also available.

Housing. Buyers will find a wide variety of home styles including including classic Colonials, Tudors, Cape Cods, bi-levels and ranches. Many homes are set on secluded wooded acreage or winding, tree-lined streets. Newer townhomes and condominiums are also available, many conveniently located near shopping and dining areas.

Transportation. Northfield offers easy access to the Eden's Expressway (I-94) and the Tri-State Tollway (I-294). Drive time to the Loop is approximately 45 minutes while O'Hare Airport can be reached in 20 minutes and Midway Airport in about one hour. Rail commuters can catch the Metra trains from nearby Glenview or neighboring Winnetka for the 40-minute trip to downtown. Suburban bus service is also available through PACE.