Fairview Heights, Illinois
Population: 14,700
Located in St. Clair County
Fairview Heights, IllinoisIn the early 1990s, the City of Fairview Heights, Illinois, developed the nickname "Crossroads of Prosperity" to promote tourism and economic development. However, the city has been prosperous in one form or another for many years prior even to being incorporated as a municipality in 1969. The origins of the city can be credited to the early explorers who discovered and navigated the Mississippi River over 400 years ago. In the early and mid 1800s, migrants from Germany settled into the area known as "Ridge Prairie" to farm the rich soil. As more settlers came, predominantly German interests invested in coal mining. The area became a popular campaign stop for political candidates including Abraham Lincoln. The road he traveled is named after him, Lincoln Trail. The first settlers made their homes out of logs similar to the cabin built by the Kinsella family which now stands in Pleasant Ridge Park. As the community began to grow, the area was laid out and platted for future development. Soon subdivisions began springing up in what was once fertile farm land. In the ensuing years, schools and churches were built. The Fairview Improvement Association was formed in 1914 for the protection and security of the residents. Concerns for fire protection led to the organization of The Fairview Volunteer Fire Fighters by the association in 1937. The coal era in Fairview Heights ended in 1957 with the closing of the last remaining mine. However, the city was prospering through a proliferation of new businesses attracted by the high calibre of residents who actively participate in ongoing efforts to ensure quality of life. In 1965, residents officially voted to be called Fairview Heights. The new city quickly founded a post office, and established a sewer district. Volunteer citizens patroled the Fairview Heights area as special deputies for the St. Clair County Sheriff's Department. In 1969, when confronted with the possible annexation of their community to an adjoining area without their consent, the residents of Fairview Heights reacted by organizing a committee to look into the possibility of incorporation as a municipal entity. Their swift action was rewarded with the formal incorporation of the City of Fairview Heights on October 2, 1969. Generations of hard-working, progressive minded residents have kindled the spirit of prosperity that has endured growing pains and fiscal hardships to create high standards of living. Today, the city of Fairview Heights looks forward to a bright future as one of the fastest growing communities in Southwestern Illinois. It truly exists as the Crossroads to Prosperity. Find homes for sale in Fairview Heights Illinois
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Fairview Heights's Premier Real Estate AgentTrudy Knobeloche-PROColdwell Banker Nester
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