Our story
It started at the railroad depot.
C. & N.W. R.R. Depot, Gilberts, Ill. — c. 1910
1852 – 1890 · Roots
Built on the prairie
The railroad laid a depot on a local farm. The crossing took the family's name — and a village was born. Platted in 1855, incorporated in 1890.
1907 – 1930 · The quiet
The trains slowed
The interurban was scrapped and the Depression hit. The town shrank from 222 people to about 130.
1956 – Today · Growth
A village again
They stayed and rebuilt. Today more than 8,000 people call Gilberts home — and it's still growing.
8,366
Thriving residents
1890
Became a village
5.5 sq mi
On the Kane County prairie
4
Welcoming parks