Downers Grove Historical Society

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Every year, the Downers Grove Historical Society identifies an individual who epitomizes the spirit of “giving back” to the community.

The late Montrew Dunham, who co-wrote the history book “Downers Grove, 1832-1982” and authored the follow-up, serves as the model for this award.

This year, the Historical Society recognized Mary Ellen Young as the recipient of the Montrew Dunham Award for her leadership in improving local childhood education, reducing bullying, fostering adolescent mental health, and championing organizations that enhanced life in Downers Grove for current and future generations.

The ceremony took place on Saturday, Oct. 5 pm at the James Henry Breasted Auditorium at the Lincoln Center.

Downers Grove Historical Society Recognition Committee Chair Bruce Swanson congratulates
Mary Ellen Young.

 

Author

A modern day ladder truck

From One Fire Truck to 8,000 Calls

Downers Grove Public Library, past

Built to Last

Jim and Landon Thome share a moment on the field at Rate Field following Landon’s selection by the Chicago White Sox in the first round of the 2026 MLB Draft. 
<br><i>Photo courtesy of the Chicago White Sox</i>

Thome Feels White Sox Draft

The third annual Love Like Sean 
Family Run will take place on November 1 at Robbins Park.
<br><i>Photo by Adam Pitra/AWP Photography</i>

A Legacy of Love

Clarendon Heights Fire Department surveying the wreckage.
<br><i>Photo courtesy of the Clarendon Hills Historical Society</i>

TWA Flight 529: Local Memories of a National Tragedy

Jennifer Carmody Haunty and Jake Haunty share a commitment to supporting Wellness House and the families it serves.

Finding Hope Again

Built in 1924, R. Harold Zook’s home and studio were originally located at 327 S. Oak St.

Preserving Historic Hinsdale

`Climate of Hope’ was a professional development session for area science educators led by DGN teacher and Educator of the Year honoree Jeff Grant.

Honoring DuPage’s Best Educators

`Climate of Hope’ was a professional development session for area science educators led by DGN teacher and Educator of the Year honoree Jeff Grant.

Honoring DuPage’s Best Educators

`Climate of Hope’ was a professional development session for area science educators led by DGN teacher and Educator of the Year honoree Jeff Grant.

Honoring DuPage’s Best Educators

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The Reshaping of Real Estate

A bronze statue of Officer Ella French and her dog, Bella, was dedicated in Wentworth Park in 2025.

Remembering Ella French