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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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Latest News in Des Plaines

Feb 20, 2026
They’ve Won $288 Million From The Lottery But The State Won’t Pay Them
Winning the lottery has been the dream for many, and in Illinois, lottery winners are hitting the jackpot.

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.

Famous People from Des Plaines, Illinois

FA
Fin Argus
Actor, Musician · Born Sep 1, 1998 · Age 27
DU
Danelle Umstead
Alpine Skier · Born Feb 15, 1972 · Age 54
SG
Shawn Green
Baseball Player · Born Nov 10, 1972 · Age 53
AD
Angela Dugalić
Basketball Player · Born Dec 29, 2001 · Age 24
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