Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

Naperville’s Historic Preservation Commission voted unanimously Thursday to recommend landmark status for the First Congregational Church of Naperville, drawing applause from a crowd of nearly 50 people.

Founded in 1833, two years after Naperville was established, First Congregational is the oldest church in DuPage County and the oldest Congregational church in northern Illinois. Its past and current members include people who have made significant contributions to the city and have been active in social justice causes.

Among the church’s influential members include Henry and Thankful Goodrich, who donated land for a forest preserve in DuPage County now known as Goodrich Woods, and James L. Nichols I, who bequested the funds to build the ci

See Full Page