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Des Plaines, Illinois

Located in Cook County, Illinois, Des Plaines was established in 1835. Ray Kroc opened his first McDonald's franchise here in 1955. A McDonald's museum replica stands at the original site.
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Founded 1835 | Population 60,000 | Peak 60,000 (2024) | County Cook County

Top 10 Most Important Events for Des Plaines, Illinois

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1835Founded: Des Plaines was founded as a railroad town in Cook County.
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1855Railroad Era: Railroad connections spurred growth and commerce in Des Plaines.
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1955First McDonald's: Ray Kroc's first franchise.
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2010Modern Era: Des Plaines continued to develop as part of the region, with new infrastructure and community amenities.
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Complete Historical Timeline

1835 Culture
Founded
1855 Transport
Railroad Era
1955 Business
First McDonald's
2010 Culture
Modern Era

Did You Know?

1
Ray Kroc opened his first McDonald's franchise here in 1955.
2
A McDonald's museum replica stands at the original site.
3
O'Hare International Airport is partially within Des Plaines.
4
Des Plaines is located in Cook County, Illinois.
5
Des Plaines was founded in 1835.
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