The Kombrink Team Difference

• Founded in 1835: Elgin's early roots were in the milling and agricultural industries, thanks to its location along the Fox River. The city's name comes from a popular hymn at the time, "Elgin" by the famous composer William Kirkpatrick.
• Industrial Heritage: In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Elgin was known for its manufacturing, particularly for the Elgin Watch Company, one of the largest watch manufacturers in the world at the time. The company put Elgin on the map as a center of industrial innovation.
• Elgin was once known as the "butter capital of the world" for its butter and dairy products. 
• Elgin has been a sister city of Vientiane, the capital of Laos, since 1967. 

• Historic Downtown: Elgin has one of the most well-preserved historic districts in the region, with buildings dating back to the 1800s. The Elgin Historic District is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and features beautiful Victorian, Art Deco, and Queen Anne-style buildings.
• Elgin’s Landmark Buildings: The Elgin National Watch Company Factory and the Grand Victoria Casino are iconic structures in the city. Additionally, the St. Mary’s Catholic Church, with its impressive Gothic Revival architecture, stands out in the city's skyline.
• Hinsdell House, located at 443 E. Chicago Street, is considered one of the oldest homes in the Elgin Historic District. 

• Elgin Symphony Orchestra: Elgin is home to the Elgin Symphony Orchestra, one of the oldest and most renowned symphonies in Illinois. The orchestra performs in the historic Hemmens Cultural Center, a performing arts venue that hosts concerts, theater performances, and other cultural events.
• Arts and Music Festivals: The city celebrates its vibrant arts scene with events like the Elgin Fringe Festival, a multi-day festival that showcases independent theater, music, and dance. Elgin also hosts an annual Art & Soul on the Fox festival, celebrating local art, music, and food.

• Fox River: The Fox River flows through the heart of Elgin, offering opportunities for outdoor activities such as boating, kayaking, and fishing. The riverwalk along the Fox River is a popular spot for walking, biking, and enjoying the scenic views.
• Park District: The Elgin Park District offers numerous parks, trails, and recreational facilities, including the Wing Park with its outdoor pool, playgrounds, and picnic areas, and the Elgin Sports Complex, which hosts various athletic events and activities.

• Elgin’s downtown area is full of unique restaurants, cafes, and shops, making it a great destination for dining and shopping. The downtown area has a strong sense of community, with many locally owned businesses, such as craft breweries, boutique shops, and farm-to-table restaurants.
• The Elgin Public House is a favorite local spot for craft beer and casual dining, while The Angel's Gate Brewery offers locally brewed beers with a focus on community.

• Elgin is a diverse city with a strong multicultural presence. It has a rich mix of ethnicities, including large Hispanic, African American, and Middle Eastern communities. This diversity is celebrated through various events and festivals, such as the Elgin Hispanic Heritage Month celebrations.
• The city's diverse food scene reflects its multicultural population, with a wide range of international cuisines, including Mexican, Italian, Mediterranean, and more.

• Elgin Community College: Founded in 1949, Elgin Community College offers a wide range of higher education programs, workforce development opportunities, and continuing education courses, making it an important educational institution in the area.

• Proximity to Chicago: Elgin is conveniently located about 40 miles northwest of Chicago, with easy access to the city via Interstate 90 and commuter trains. The Metra Rail service connects Elgin to Chicago, making it a desirable location for commuters.
• O'Hare International Airport is just a short drive away, offering residents easy access to domestic and international travel.

• Elgin is home to the Elgin Mental Health Center, a historic institution that has been operating since 1872. The center provides mental health services and has an extensive history, having been featured in historical records and even ghost stories due to its long-standing presence in the community.

• Elgin Harvest Market: A popular annual event that celebrates the fall season with a mix of farmers' markets, live entertainment, and community activities.
• Christmas Parades and Celebrations: Elgin hosts a well-loved Christmas Parade, featuring floats, music, and holiday festivities, helping to bring the community together during the holiday season.

• Chuck Woolery: The famous television personality, known for hosting shows like Wheel of Fortune and Love Connection, is from Elgin.
• Elgin Baylor: A legendary former NBA player, Elgin Baylor was born in Washington, D.C., but grew up in Elgin and became one of the most iconic players in basketball history.

• Elgin is recognized for its strong sense of community, safety, and quality of life. It has been listed as one of the best places to live in the Chicago area due to its affordable housing, parks, and educational options.

Elgin is a city that combines historical charm with modern amenities, making it a wonderful place to live, work, and visit. Whether you're interested in its rich cultural scene, outdoor recreation, or local businesses, Elgin offers something for everyone.