About Palatine's Business History

Palatine, Illinois has a rich commercial history dating back to its founding in 1866. What started as a small farming community along the Chicago and North Western Railway has grown into a vibrant suburb with a diverse mix of businesses.

Downtown Palatine, centered around the intersection of Northwest Highway and Smith Street, was once the heart of local commerce. Hardware stores, drug stores, taverns, and family restaurants lined the streets. Many of these businesses served multiple generations of Palatine families.

Today, while many of those original storefronts have changed hands or been redeveloped, their legacy lives on in the memories of longtime residents and the historical photos preserved by our community.

Palatine by the Numbers

150+ Historical Locations Documented
1866 Year Palatine Was Founded
68,000+ Current Population
100+ Years of Business History

Palatine Through the Decades

1860s-1900s: Railroad Era

Palatine grows around the Chicago and North Western Railway. Hotels, general stores, and blacksmith shops serve travelers and farmers.

1920s-1940s: Main Street Heyday

Downtown Palatine thrives with local shops, theaters, and restaurants. The Palatine Theater opens, becoming a community landmark.

1950s-1960s: Suburban Boom

Post-war growth brings new residents and businesses. Strip malls begin appearing along major roads.

1970s-1980s: Shopping Center Era

Palatine Plaza and other shopping centers change the retail landscape. Chain stores arrive alongside local favorites.

1990s-2000s: Redevelopment

Downtown Palatine sees revitalization efforts. New restaurants and entertainment venues emerge.

2010s-Present: Mixed-Use Growth

Transit-oriented development brings new residential and commercial spaces near the Metra station.

Notable Palatine Locations

Downtown Palatine

The historic heart of the village, featuring Smith Street and Northwest Highway businesses from the 1900s to today.

Decades: 1900s - Present

Northwest Highway Corridor

Major commercial strip with restaurants, auto dealers, and retail that has evolved dramatically over the decades.

Decades: 1950s - Present

Rand Road Area

Shopping centers and strip malls that became the new retail center as Palatine expanded westward.

Decades: 1970s - Present

Palatine Road

Mix of older businesses and newer developments connecting downtown to surrounding neighborhoods.

Decades: 1960s - Present

Explore Nearby Communities

Palatine is surrounded by other Chicago suburbs with their own rich business histories. Explore what used to be in these neighboring communities:

Mount Prospect Arlington Heights Rolling Meadows Schaumburg Hoffman Estates Inverness

Know Something About Palatine's History?

Do you have photos, memories, or information about old Palatine businesses? We'd love to add your knowledge to our growing database.

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