The Council of Independent Colleges: Historic Campus Architecture Project

Naperville Historic District Neighborhood

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Institution Name: North Central College
Original/Historic Place Name: Naperville Historic District Neighborhood
Location on Campus:
Date(s) of Construction:

ca. 1830-1920

campus construction and development

Designer:
Type of Place: Building group
Style: Victorian, Other (Glossary)
Significance:
Narrative: see below
References: see below

Function:

Narrative:
The town of Naperville in 1870, when it convinced the College to relocate here, was a small town of 1700. Following World War II, Naperville began a journey leading it to its current status as one of the largest cities in Illinois with 130,000 residents and a unique example of the developing "technoburb". Residents enjoy the proximity to Chicago, but also recognize their heritage with the historic district designation. The College is located in the midst of this historic district. The College and the neighborhood work together to reach the best possible solutions to challenges arising from expansion and growth of both the College and town. In this spirit of cooperation, the College has created a Master Facilities Plan, which evaluates the adequacy of existing facilities and looks forward and suggest directions for the campus to take in the future years.

References:

North Central College & Naperville: A Shared History, 1870-1995. Naperville, IL: North Central College, 1995.

Roberts, Clarence N. A Clear & Steady Light: A Brief History of North Central College. Naperville, IL: North Central College, 1981.

Roberts, Clarence N. North Central College: A Century of Liberal Education, 1861-1961. Naperville, IL: North Central College, 1960.

Savage, Charles. A College In Its Community. Naperville, IL: North Central College, [n.d.].