Before 1835, no white man lived in this area. It was Indian Territory. In this year there survived two (2) white men, Nelson Landon and Jeremian Stowall. They sailed across Lake Michigan and arrived at Pike Creek (now Kenosha). They were on their way to MILWAKY but were told that there was good land to the South. They found what they were looking for in the area of 13th Street and Sheridan Road. Here they erected a 12' x 12' log cabin and set out their claims.

In the early 70's, the State of Illinois designated the area east of the Chicago and Northwestern Railroad tracks as a conservation area, now the North Point Marina. Approximately 200 homes were purchased by the State, relocated throughout the area, demolished or claimed by Lake Michigan.
Today the Village is a "Bedroom" Community of small businesses and residential homes. With the opening of the North Point Marina, the Great Lakes' largest marina, the Village has seen an influx of travelers and major increase in tourism. The Village is located half-way between Chicago and Milwaukee, just less than an hours drive from many major attractions.

The Village has experienced steady residential growth over the past fifteen years. This can be attributed to the lovely tree-lined streets, parks and bike trails and strict enforcement of the zoning ordinances. Winthrop Harbor has an excellent elementary school system, top-notch fire and police departments along with the availability of Lake Michigan water. Winthrop Harbor was noted by the Census Bureau as having experienced the largest increase in income, per capita, in the State of Illinois.

If you're looking for a nice place to launch your boat, take a leisurely bike ride or just a nice place to live, come visit us here in "The Cornerstone of Illinois".