World War II did not affect Gilberts as severely as the past war. One drastic change was when the elementary school was closed and children were bused to Dundee. In 1956, the construction of the Chicago-Northwest Tollway started a renewal in the town. Although there was not a direct access to the road, it did spur interest in further development in Gilberts. In 1958, the fire department started its present form, consisting of two stations, one of which is located in downtown Gilberts. In the mid 1960's, a light industrial manufacturing area was established off of Route 72 and the core of the village was enhanced by four new subdivisions including Windmill Meadows, Dunhill Estates, Gilberts Glen, and Indian Trails. By the 1970's, the first industrial park was constructed along the southeast subdivisions and as growth continued, a second and eventually third industrial park was established. In 1979, the Gilberts unit of the fire department, which was housed in a large multiuse building and contained three trucks, was finally completed.
Improvements continued to be made in the Village life. The old general store was converted into the Gilberts Post Office, which remains an important part of village life today. In 1988, a new water system was constructed when the old municipal well endured problems from methane gas collecting in the well house. Also in this year, the Village of Gilberts experienced its fifteen minutes of fame when President George Bush visited the town during his election campaign.
The Village of Gilberts today, is facing the effects of urban sprawl. As Chicago has continually increased in infrastructure, density, and many other facets of urban development, citizens are searching for a more remote and quaint living environment. In preparation for the increased developmental trend, the Village of Gilberts looks back to its history and the core of its existence to preserve its identity and character. Gilberts is a place close to major cities, but far enough away to provide room for healthy growth of both families and light industrial manufacturing. For these reasons, the Village of Gilberts must logically plan for its future and carry on the traditions and values that were so prominently established by the founders of this land.
Learn more about GILBERTS, Illinois
City of GILBERTS, IL official website
County of Kane, IL official website
City of GILBERTS, IL general information
City of GILBERTS, IL chamber of commerce
City of GILBERTS, IL yellow pages