Welcome to the City of Evanston, home to approximately 75,000 residents and located just north of of Chicago. Bordering Lake Michigan and home to Northwestern University and Rotary International,
and featuring six public swimming beaches. Evanston's unique beauty and character delights visitors and residents of all ages. With a vision to create the most livable city in America, Evanston celebrates the diversity of its opportunities and residents.

Northwestern University was actually founded before the City itself. In 1855, Northwestern opened its door for the first time. The founders of Northwestern, submitted to the county judge their plans for a city and their wish to rename the town Evanston in 1854. In 1847, the town of Evanston was named.

After the Civil War, Evanston saw a huge economic and population boom. Between 1860 and 1870, the population quadrupled. Evanston continue to grow and remain independent of Chicago. The City became know for its architecture and beautiful homes on the lake. Then, between 1920 and 1930, there was a 70 percent increase in population.

Today, Evanston is still thriving as an independent city. There are many cultural outlets, a thriving business economy and many public lakefront recreation activities and beaches.