Highland Park represents one of the finest examples of late-19th-century suburban development. Its abundant natural beauty was quickly recognized
and preserved by the visionary design of two well-known landscape architects, Horace W. S. Cleveland and William M. R. French. Capitalizing on the setting
and boasting "good schools, good churches and good society," the Highland Park Building Company transformed the scenic village into one of the most desirable communities on Chicago's North Shore, attracting socially prominent residents who built gracious lakefront estates and quiet country homes along its bluffs and shady lanes. Historic photographs illustrate the transformation from forest and farmland to a fashionable residential community and capture the social, civic, and business accomplishments of Highland Park's early citizens. The city's early progress and prosperity are celebrated in this book.