St. Charles Real Estate

Nestled along both the east and west sides of the Fox River, St. Charles real estate features a good mix of home types and styles. Real estate in St. Charles offers many high-end real estate options including homes with lots exceeding an acre. The quaint atmosphere and eclectic shopping districts in downtown St. Charles attracts many buyers looking for small-town living. St. Charles is also known for it's extensive park district.

St. Charles, Illinois

St. Charles Illinois began in 1833 when Evan Shelby and William Franklin discovered the area and staked a claim on the east side of the Fox River. They left that winter to gather their families in Indiana and returned the following spring, building a cabin on land purchased from the government. The new community was named Charleston and began to attract other settlers who took up residence on purchased land and began farming. By 1836, a dam on the fox river, a sawmill, gristmill and bridge had all been constructed lending some industry to the developing community. In 1839, it was discovered that the community shared names with another Charleston in Southern Illinois and so it was suggested that the community be renamed St. Charles.

Similar to it's southern neighbor, Geneva, St. Charles also got a population boost from an influx of Swedish immigrants who settled in the area and proved to be hard-working and successful. St. Charles soon became a popular stopover on the road between Chicago and DeKalb. Several hotels sprung up in the area to cater to the travelers and the number would keep growing to a high of 17 in the early 1900's. St. Charles played an important role in the underground railroad helping fugitive slaves journey north to Canada. The Kane County Anti-Slavery Society was largely responsible for the aid and was cenetered in the community.

In the early 20th century, St. Charles became known as a popular resort town - noted for its expansive parks and beautiful river views. Like Geneva, many Chicagoans traveled to St. Charles during the summer as a country escape, some eventually building summer homes or relocating to the area because of its appeal. St. charles remains a well-known tourist destination. It's collection of small shops, beautiful vistas and charming little parks are popular with folks looking for a relaxing small-town atmosphere.