Stolp Island

Stolp Island, nestled in the heart of Aurora, Illinois, is a captivating blend of history, architecture, and culture. This small island in the Fox River, covering a mere 0.03 square miles, is a treasure trove of stories waiting to be discovered. Added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1986, Stolp Island boasts 41 historic buildings, each with its own unique tale to tell.

The Birth of Stolp Island

The story of Stolp Island begins with Joseph Stolp, who purchased the island for the modest sum of $12.72 in 1848. Alongside Zaphna Lake and the McCarty brothers, Stolp constructed a mill on the island, with the dam completed in 1835. By 1848, Aurora had grown to over 1,000 residents, and Stolp Island emerged as a central location for the town's burgeoning community.

As Aurora expanded, the Fox River created a natural divide between the town's east and west sides, leading to a fair amount of rivalry. Stolp Island, situated in the middle of the river, became the perfect neutral ground for Aurora's government and public buildings. This strategic location helped bridge the gap between East Aurora, incorporated in 1845, and West Aurora, which followed in 1854.

Economic Boom and Unity

Aurora's first major economic boost came in 1856 with the construction of the Chicago, Burlington, & Quincy Roundhouse and Locomotive Shop. This development attracted new customers and spurred commercial growth. In 1857, thanks to the efforts of William Parker, East and West Aurora united to form a single city. The city charter stipulated that a new city hall be built on Stolp Island, which was completed in 1865 and featured a post office on its first floor.

Stolp Island quickly became the hub for public organizations. The Grand Army of the Republic Hall, serving Post No. 20, opened in 1877. The island also housed a Carnegie library and Aurora's first YMCA building. During the 1920s, the island's north end, previously prone to flooding, was expanded and reinforced with landfill, solidifying its role as a commercial and public center.

A Hub of Culture and Commerce

Stolp Island's cultural significance continued to grow with the construction of the Columbia Conservatory of Music in 1907. This institution, presided over by Harry Rutt Detweiler, offered classes in music, art, dance, and foreign languages until Detweiler's retirement.

In 1917, the Hotel Aurora was constructed, surpassing the Hotel Arthur as the tallest building in Aurora. This Renaissance Revival structure was built with the hope that the newly expanded north end would attract visitors and make Stolp Island a major destination. The 1920s saw the addition of two Prairie Style office buildings designed by George Grant Elmslie: the Keystone Building (1923) and the Graham Building (1926).

The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks added to the island's architectural diversity with the construction of the Aurora Elks Lodge No. 705 in 1926, designed in the Mayan Revival style. The Leland Tower, a third major hotel, was built in 1928 and operated by the same family as the Hotel Arthur. When it opened, the Leland Tower was the tallest building in Illinois outside of Chicago.

The Paramount Theatre and Beyond

One of Stolp Island's crown jewels is the Paramount Theatre, designed by the renowned architectural firm Rapp and Rapp. Opening its doors in 1931, the theatre has been a cultural beacon for Aurora, hosting countless performances and events. After a significant restoration in 1976, the Paramount Theatre continues to be a beloved venue for both locals and visitors.

Exploring Stolp Island Today

Today, Stolp Island remains a vibrant part of Aurora, offering visitors a unique blend of historical and cultural experiences. Strolling through the island, you'll encounter an array of architectural styles, from Renaissance Revival to Prairie Style and Mayan Revival. Each building tells a story of Aurora's past, from its early days as a mill town to its growth into a bustling city.

Stolp Island's strategic location in the Fox River makes it an ideal spot for exploring Aurora's rich history. Whether you're visiting the historic city hall, the Grand Army of the Republic Hall, or the Paramount Theatre, there's no shortage of fascinating sites to discover. The island's compact size makes it perfect for a leisurely walk, allowing you to take in the sights and sounds of this charming historic district.

In conclusion, Stolp Island is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, architecture, and culture. Its rich heritage, combined with its picturesque setting in the Fox River, makes it a unique and captivating place to explore. So, next time you find yourself in Aurora, be sure to take a stroll through Stolp Island and immerse yourself in the stories of this remarkable historic district.