History

Township - A Cornerstone of American Democracy

If township government seems like something new to you, it’s not.  Township government, often called “grass roots” government, pre-dates the U.S. Constitution by over 150 years.  Township government in the United States dates back to the mid-1600’s when English colonists brought with them a tradition of government based on the English parish.  The English parish and township shared common boundaries and often the same officials would be elected to serve on both governing boards.  In early America, a township consisted of a group of citizens living within a reasonable distance of a centrally located meeting house.  At a “town” meeting, usually attended by all residents and families, every voter had the privilege of joining in the discussion issues of public concern.  Proposals regarding “town” actions required the approval of the majority of the citizenry.

After the revolution, Congress designated the land extending to the Mississippi River as the Northwest territory.  In 1787, Congress passed the Northwest Ordinance, providing for a pattern of government that established territorial governors  and congressional townships.  Each township comprised an area of six miles square, which became popularly known as “six by six”.

In 1818, the first Illinois Constitution called for the establishment of county governments whereby three commissioners were elected at large to comprise a governing board.  During the mid-1800’s, Northern Illinois experienced an influx of settlers from new land who were accustomed to the “town” form of government and demanded that counties make provisions for township units.  The second Illinois Constitution, passed in 1848, suggested that legislators provide for an optional township government; and the State Constitution of 1870 made it law

How Palatine Township Began

In 1835, the first settlers arrived in what is now Palatine Township.  They settled in wooded areas such as Deer Grove, Englishman's Grove, Highland Grove (Inverness), and Plum Grove.  Palatine township was originally designated “Township 42” by State Constitution.  In 1850, the townspeople gathered at a local schoolhouse to choose a new name for the township.  It is very likely that the name Palatine originated from the “Palatinate” area along the Rhine River in Germany, The European home of many of our early settlers.

At this time, township government was established by law.  On April 2, 1850, the first annual meeting of the Township of Palatine was held.  A staff of officers was elected to govern the community's affairs.  The annual Town Meeting continues to this day offering the people a voice in their township government.  All residents of the Township are invited to attend both the annual town meeting and all regular board meetings to voice their concerns.

Township Historical Book Now Available

Did you ever wonder how Palatine Township got its name?  Have you ever thought about what issues were of the most concern to our area’s first settlers?  Have you ever voted for the Canadian Thistle Commissioner?  The answer to these, and many other questions, can be found in the newly published book, Township of Palatine: Understanding Local Government, written by former Township Historian David Hammer. 

This historical book takes the reader from the very early formation of Township Government in New England, right up to modern Township operations.  It shows how important Township Government was to Thomas Jefferson, and also to the rest of our Founding Fathers.  The book contains copies of survey maps from the 1840's, copies of minutes from the late 1800's, pictures of modern Road District equipment, as well as many other charts and graphs that detail the rich history of our Township.

Interested in obtaining a copy of this valuable resource?  There are two ways that you can receive a copy of Township of Palatine: Understanding Local Government

1.      Make a $5.00 contribution to the Needy Family Fund, which helps families in need who might not qualify for other assistance, in person or by mail to:  Palatine Township, 721 S. Quentin Road
Suite 101, Palatine, IL  60067.  You will receive your copy by mail.

2.      Stop by the Township Center and make a canned goods donation to the Food Pantry, which provides help to hundreds of families a year

 If you have ever wondered how our community was formed, this book is a must read.  With a donation to the Needy Family Fund or the Township Food Pantry you will not only help those in need, but you will receive the Township historical book detailing the rich history of our community.

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