Ford Dealer Near Sandwich IL

The city of Sandwich has several rumors surrounding the origin of its name -- some speculate it's named for the Sandwich Islands; others, the Earl of Sandwich. Others still claim that it's literally named for the food known as a sandwich. In reality, it's named after Sandwich, New Hampshire, the hometown of John Wentworth, who gave the town a new name after a confusing history of flip-flopping between Almon and Newark Station.

Sandwich sits on a hillside and is surrounded by nature, with a number of preserves in the area and several examples of historical architecture not only still standing, but still in operation -- one of which being the city's iconic opera house.

The opera house was built after the civil war in 1878, in a mixture of different architectural styles now classified as "Second Empire" style. As one of the first buildings in Sandwich, it originated as a community center and also as a municipal center of operations, with a number of offices for the mayor, city clerk, and many other city officials, along with five jail cells. In addition, everything from professional theater troupes to high school plays and church choirs would perform at the opera house; these days, it has been reformed as purely a center for the performing arts.

For another dose of history, the Stone Mill Museum is also situated in Sandwich, run by the Sandwich Illinois Historical Society during the warmer months, starting at the beginning of April every year. The Von KleinSmid Mansion is also a notable restored historical landmark for those looking for a bit of sightseeing, though you can't go inside because it's currently under private ownership.

Sandwich is also known for its annual Sandwich Fair. As the oldest continuing fair in Illinois, attending the fair has become a tradition for the community. With a number of family-friendly events, activities, and even a campground for visitors, the fair is a sight to behold every September.