When the first European settlers come to the region around 1835, they camped along the Kishwaukee River, now the center of Belvidere. The settlers decided to name the town Belvidere, for the Latin meaning of Belvidere is “beautiful to see”. By the mid to late 1800’s, Belvidere became an industrial hub.

Belvidere houses The Pettit Memorial Chapel designed by the famous architect, Frank Lloyd Wright. Besides the Pettit Chapel, Belvidere has 31 locally landmarked buildings and four nationally registered landmarks.

The Historic Preservation Commission was created by the Belvidere City Council as a means of encouraging the preservation of historically and architecturally significant structures and areas of the City of Belvidere (See Chapter 58 of the Municipal Code).

The Belvidere South State Street Historic District is a historic district on the north side of the Kishwaukee River in Belvidere, Illinois. It is primarily composed of commercial building representative of architectural trends from 1852 to 1962, the period following the connection of the city to the Galena and Chicago Union Railroad.

The Belvidere North State Street Historic District is a historic district on the north side of the Kishwaukee River in Belvidere, Illinois. It is primarily composed of commercial building representative of architectural trends from 1865 to 1962.

Known as the 'City of Murals', Belvidere is home to several public art installations throughout the North and South State Street historic districts, which are on the National Register of Historic Places.

The Baltic Mill is rich with history and remains the cornerstone of the Belvidere Park District. Although the Baltic Mill has since been renovated and modernized, it remains beautiful, rustic, and quaintly nestled amongst trees, the river, beautiful greenery, and nature itself.

Jan 22, 2025 · The city was founded in 1836 and renamed Belvidere (Latin: “beautiful view”). Belvidere was an important stopping place on the Chicago-Galena stage route and developed as an agricultural trading center, shipping milk and grain to Chicago.

Explore our new exhibit that dives into Judi’s life growing up in Belvidere as an expert gymnast, to her historic win, and her current life as a retired teacher and grandmother. Sowing Season features interactive elements for kids such as a farmers market, a cow that can be milked, and more! We can’t wait for you to see this exhibit!

The Lakota Group along with the City of Belvidere, Illinois and Belvidere citizens and stakeholders, initiated a process to create a 10-Year Historic Preservation Plan — a plan that will guide local decision-making on the identification, conservation, and stewardship of Belvidere’s architecturally and historically significant buildings and ...