Get to Know
Frankfort Township
Founded in 1849
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Construction of the new administration building captured by Pam Biesen
Frankfort Township offers a variety of services and activities for the incorporated and unincorporated residents of Frankfort, Mokena, Tinley Park, and Orland Park.
This November Frankfort Township is marking its 174th year as a truly local form of government. Our goal is to continue to enhance and broaden the services available to the 59,000-plus residents throughout our community. Many Township functions are not available through municipalities or the county, but we feel that they are important to sustaining a strong community. We welcome you to navigate our website to see all that Frankfort Township has to offer!
Immersed in community and history, Frankfort Township is a perfect blend of modern and old-world charm, not just in its unique architecture but in the everyday life of its residents.
The enthusiastic, innovative officials work together to ensure that Frankfort Township remains a place that will thrive for generations to come. This passion continues with the devoted community members, who are quick to welcome all with a warm smile. Come visit and feel at home.
Our Roots...
Frankfort Township was originally a part of the Hickory Creek Precinct. In 1849, Frankfort Township was named by Frederick Cappel after his native city, Frankfurt-Am-Main, Germany. In 1855, the Joliet and Northern Indiana Railroad built a line through the area linking Joliet with Lake Station, Indiana. The J&NI Railroad was leased to the Michigan Central Railroad and service was implemented in July 1855.
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Map of Valley View Farm Restaurant captured by Pam Biesen
What is now known as Frankfort Township was originally part of the Hickory Creek Precinct. Will County was originally divided into ten precincts. The county, in 1849, was changed to the township form of government. Nelson D. Elwood and Sherman Bowen were officers of the rail line, a Joliet attorney and real estate man, jointly platted a village of around 23 acres (9.3 ha) in March 1855 and named it Frankfort after the township. It was commonly referred to as "Frankfort Station" because of the railroad depot located there. John McDonald became the first railroad agent in 1857.
In 1879, the village of Frankfort was incorporated, and elected John McDonald as the first Village President. Along with the establishment of the government, among the first undertakings of the newly formed administration was the institution of land use policies. Early plots that were recorded indicated a traditional grid pattern with residential uses surrounding the business district and railroad line and additional land provided for schools and public open spaces.
The Frankfort Area Historical Society incorporated in 1973 and has played an active role in preserving, protecting and promoting Frankfort's history since that time. The Museum, once a livery stable owned by Johnson Folkers (One of Frankfort's first residents), is open to the public four days a week and houses an extensive collection of records and memorabilia. Check out the Frankfort Area Historical Society website or call 815.469.6541
Located at 132 W. Kansas Street, Frankfort, IL 60423
MISSION STATEMENT
"The society's major function will be to discover and collect any material which may help to establish or illustrate the history of the area. It will collect and preserve printed material, manuscript material and other museum material. The society will disseminate historical information to the public."