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Friday, March 15, 2024

Maywood, IL: A Hidden Gem in Cook County

  Rajesh Kumar Rana       Friday, March 15, 2024

Are you looking for a unique and diverse city to explore? Look no further than Maywood, Illinois. Located in Cook County, Maywood is home to a population of approximately 24,000 people and boasts a rich history and culture. Here is a comprehensive guide to help you discover everything Maywood has to offer.




History of Maywood

Maywood is a city in Cook County, Illinois, located about 10 miles west of downtown Chicago. The city was founded in 1869 by a group of Chicago businessmen who were looking to create a suburban retreat for city residents. The town was named after May, the daughter of one of the town's founders.


In the early years, Maywood was primarily a rural community with a few scattered homes and businesses. However, in the late 1800s and early 1900s, the city experienced a period of rapid growth and development. Many new homes were built during this time, and the city's population grew rapidly.


During World War II, Maywood played an important role in the war effort. The city was home to a large defense industry, including several factories that produced military equipment and supplies. The war helped to further boost Maywood's economy and population.


In the 1950s and 1960s, Maywood continued to grow and develop. Many new homes were built during this time, and the city's downtown area underwent a major renovation. However, in the 1970s and 1980s, Maywood faced a number of challenges, including rising crime rates and economic decline. Many businesses closed their doors, and the city's population declined.


Despite these challenges, Maywood has continued to be a vibrant and diverse community. In recent years, the city has worked hard to revitalize its downtown area and attract new businesses and residents. Today, Maywood is home to a variety of cultural institutions, recreational opportunities, and community events. The city is proud of its history and traditions, and it remains committed to building a bright future for its residents.






Geography & Climate

Geography:

Maywood is situated on the Des Plaines River and covers a total area of 2.7 square miles. The city is bordered by Melrose Park to the north, Forest Park to the east, Broadview to the west, and Bellwood to the south. Maywood is located just 10 miles west of downtown Chicago, making it a convenient and accessible location for visitors and residents alike.


Climate:

Maywood experiences a humid continental climate, with hot summers and cold winters. The average temperature in the summer months is around 80°F, while winter temperatures can dip to around 20°F. Maywood also experiences an average of 37 inches of rainfall each year.


Map and Zip Codes

To help you navigate the city, here is a map of Maywood:


City of Maywood, Cook County, Illinois map
City of Maywood, Cook County, Illinois map
source: wikipedia/
Own work


Maywood has three zip codes: 60153, 60155, and 60160.



Maywood Direction 

Maywood is located approximately 10 miles west of downtown Chicago, Illinois. If you are traveling from Chicago to Maywood, you would generally head west on I-290 or the Eisenhower Expressway. The city is also accessible by public transportation via the Chicago Transit Authority's Blue Line, which has a stop in neighboring Forest Park.






Neighborhoods & Population


Neighborhoods

Maywood is a relatively small city, covering just 2.7 square miles, but it is home to several distinct neighborhoods. Here are some of the main neighborhoods in Maywood:


  • Downtown Maywood: This neighborhood is located in the heart of Maywood and is home to many of the city's businesses and civic institutions, including the Maywood Public Library and the Maywood Police Department.
  • St. Eulalia: This neighborhood is named after the St. Eulalia Catholic Church, which is located at the heart of the community. The neighborhood is primarily residential, with a mix of single-family homes and multi-unit apartment buildings.
  • West Maywood: This neighborhood is located on the western edge of Maywood and is bordered by Bellwood to the south and Melrose Park to the north. West Maywood is primarily residential, with a mix of single-family homes and multi-unit apartment buildings.
  • Roosevelt Road Corridor: This neighborhood is located along Roosevelt Road, which is one of the main commercial corridors in Maywood. The neighborhood is home to a mix of businesses and residential properties.
  • 9th Avenue Corridor: This neighborhood is located along 9th Avenue and is home to a mix of businesses and residential properties. The 9th Avenue Corridor is also home to the Maywood Park Racetrack.
  • Maywood Park: This neighborhood is located on the eastern edge of Maywood and is home to Maywood Park Elementary School and several parks and recreational areas.




Each of these neighborhoods has its own unique character and features, and together they make up the diverse and vibrant community of Maywood.




Population

As of the 2020 census, Maywood has a population of approximately 24,000 people. The city is home to a diverse population, with over 80% of residents identifying as Black or African American. Maywood also has a significant Hispanic or Latino population, making it a multicultural and vibrant community.





City of Maywood Femous For?

Maywood is famous for several things, including:


  • Maywood Park Racetrack: Maywood Park Racetrack was a popular horse racing venue that operated in the city from 1946 to 2015. The track hosted many high-profile races over the years and was a beloved institution in the Maywood community.
  • Fred Hampton: Maywood was the hometown of Fred Hampton, a prominent civil rights leader who was assassinated in his home in the city in 1969. Hampton was a member of the Black Panther Party and was known for his activism on behalf of African Americans and other marginalized communities.
  • Maywood Music Fest: The Maywood Music Fest is an annual event that celebrates the city's rich musical heritage. The festival features performances by local and national musicians and draws visitors from around the region.
  • Maywood Bataan Day: Maywood is home to the Maywood Bataan Day Memorial, which honors the memory of the soldiers from the 192nd Tank Battalion who were stationed in the Philippines during World War II. The memorial is the site of an annual ceremony that attracts veterans and their families from around the country.
  • St. James Hospital: St. James Hospital is a landmark in Maywood and has been a fixture in the community for over a century. The hospital is known for its high-quality medical care and has been recognized for its innovative programs and services.


Overall, Maywood is a city with a rich cultural heritage and a strong sense of community pride. Its residents are proud of their city's history and traditions, and they work hard to preserve and celebrate them for future generations.






Things to Do in Maywood

Maywood offers a variety of activities for residents and visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the top things to do in Maywood:


  • Take a stroll through Fred Hampton Park, which honors the civil rights leader who was born and raised in Maywood.
  • Explore the Maywood Fine Arts Association, which offers a range of art classes and workshops for all ages.
  • Visit the Loyola University Medical Center, which is located in Maywood and is one of the top medical centers in the country.
  • Attend one of Maywood's many festivals and events, such as the Maywood Farmers Market or the Annual Block Party.
  • Take a tour of the Maywood Station Museum, which offers a glimpse into the city's rich history and showcases artifacts from the Chicago and Northwestern Railroad.
  • Visit the Proviso East High School, which has been featured in several Hollywood movies, including "Ferris Bueller's Day Off" and "Save the Last Dance."
  • Enjoy the Maywood Park Racetrack, which features live horse racing and a variety of dining options.
  • Take a bike ride or walk along the Des Plaines River Trail, which offers scenic views and connects Maywood to other nearby communities.
  • Check out the Maywood Multipurpose Building, which hosts a variety of events and activities, including dance classes and fitness programs.
  • Explore the Oak Park Arts District, located just a short drive from Maywood, which features a variety of art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants.






How to find travel deals on craigslist in MAYWOOD, IL?

Unfortunately, Craigslist does not have a specific section for travel deals in Maywood, Illinois. However, you can try the following steps to search for travel deals in Maywood or nearby areas:

  • Click on the "Community" or "For Sale" category.
  • Use the search bar to look for specific keywords related to travel, such as "Maywood," "vacation," "airline tickets," or "hotel deals."
  • Browse the listings that come up and contact the posters directly to inquire about pricing and availability.
  • Consider expanding your search to other nearby cities or areas if you are unable to find suitable travel deals in Maywood.


It's important to exercise caution and use common sense when arranging travel deals on Craigslist or any other online platform. Be sure to thoroughly research the poster and deal before making any payments, and avoid sending money before you have verified the legitimacy of the offer. Additionally, consider using reputable booking sites such as Expedia, Booking.com, or Travelocity to ensure a safe and reliable booking process.






FAQS

How far is Maywood from downtown Chicago?

Maywood is located just 10 miles west of downtown Chicago, making it a convenient and accessible location for visitors and residents alike.


What is the cost of living in Maywood?

The cost of living in Maywood is generally lower than in the nearby city of Chicago. However, it is still higher than the national average. Housing costs in Maywood are relatively affordable compared to other parts of the Chicago area.


What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Maywood?

Maywood is a diverse community, with a population that is approximately 90% African American and Hispanic/Latino. There is also a sizable white population, as well as residents from other ethnic and racial backgrounds.


What public transportation options are available in Maywood?

Maywood is served by several public transportation options, including the Metra commuter rail system, Pace bus service, and the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) Blue Line, which runs through nearby Forest Park.


Is Maywood a safe place to live?

Like any city, Maywood has its share of crime, but overall it is considered a safe place to live. The Maywood Police Department works hard to ensure the safety and security of its residents.


How can I learn more about Maywood?

To learn more about Maywood, you can visit the city's official website, check out local news sources, or take a tour of the city with a local guide.





In conclusion, Maywood, Illinois, is a hidden gem in Cook County that offers a unique and diverse experience for residents and visitors alike. With its rich history, beautiful geography, and convenient location, Maywood is definitely worth a visit.




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