Welcome to the Sycamore Historical Society, a cornerstone of history in Sycamore, Illinois. Founded in the heart of DeKalb County, Sycamore has a rich past that dates back to its early settlement days in the mid-19th century. The city was named after the sycamore tree, a nod to the natural beauty that graced this land long before it became the bustling community it is today.
The first European settlers arrived in 1835, drawn to the fertile lands north of the Kishwaukee River. This river, whose name means ‘Sycamore’, played a pivotal role in the settlement’s development. By 1837, the area known as Orange had officially become the county seat, a title it holds to this day. This decision came after much debate and political maneuvering, notably involving Rufus Colton, a local official who attempted to relocate the county seat to his home in the now-defunct town of Coltonville.
One of the most significant figures in Sycamore’s early history was Carlos Lattin. Arriving in 1835, Lattin was the first to stake a claim in what would become the town’s west side. His presence marked the beginning of Sycamore’s transformation from a small settlement to a burgeoning community, eventually leading to its incorporation as a village in 1858 and later as a city in 1869.
Sycamore has been witness to many pivotal events, including the construction of its first courthouse in 1839 and the arrival of the Sycamore and Cortland Railroad in the late 1850s, which spurred further growth and prosperity. The city is also known for a notable historical cold case, the 1957 abduction and murder of 7-year-old Maria Ridulph, a case that captured national attention and remained unsolved for decades.
Today, the Sycamore Historical Society serves as a custodian of the city’s storied past, preserving the legacy of its early settlers and the significant events that shaped its history. From its humble beginnings to its role as the county seat, Sycamore’s history is a testament to the resilience and determination of its community.
