CONGRATS-WINTHROP HARBOR

104th Regular Session Introduced by Joyce Mason

The bill formally commends and commemorates Winthrop Harbor’s 125th anniversary and its role as a historic lakefront community in northeastern Illinois.

Filed with the Clerk by Rep. Joyce Mason

Summary of HR0990 (104th General Assembly, Illinois)

Purpose and intent

This House Resolution congratulates the Village of Winthrop Harbor on the occasion of its 125th anniversary of incorporation.

It recognizes the village’s history, development, and ongoing contributions to the region, and extends best wishes to residents and leaders.

Key provisions and changes

The resolution formally acknowledges and commemorates:

Winthrop Harbor’s incorporation anniversary, celebrated on July 15, 2026.
The village’s identity as the northeasternmost point in Illinois, its motto “Cornerstone of Illinois,” and its historical evolution from early settlements to a lakefront community.
Local institutions and features, including NorthPoint Marina (described as the largest freshwater marina in the United States) and Adeline Jay Geo-Karis Illinois Beach State Park.
Proximity to and association with nearby military and regional assets, such as Naval Station Great Lakes.

The resolution designates a ceremonial recognition by the Illinois House of Representatives and directs that suitable copies be presented to:

Mayor Dr. Michael Bruno
Winthrop Harbor Board of Trustees

It does not create new laws, funding, or regulatory changes. Rather, it serves as a formal legislative expression of esteem and appreciation.

Who/what would be affected

The primary beneficiaries are the residents, officials, and civic leaders of the Village of Winthrop Harbor.

The resolution also informs the general public and regional stakeholders by highlighting the village’s history, assets, and ongoing role in northeastern Illinois’ Lake County community.

Procedural and timeline aspects

The resolution was introduced and filed in the Illinois House of Representatives as HR0990 during the 104th General Assembly.

The document notes that the 125th anniversary is celebrated on July 15, 2026.

As a ceremonial resolution, it does not impose requirements or trigger administrative actions beyond formal recognition and the distribution of copies to local officials.

Notable details

The resolution provides a concise historical narrative of Winthrop Harbor, including:

Early settlement by Nelson Landon and Jeremiah Stowell around 1835.
Naming and development lineage linked to Winthrop, Massachusetts, and development efforts by J.H. Van Vlissingen.
Incorporation in 1901 and evolution into a residential lakefront community.
Notable regional features and ecological significance of nearby state park.

Co-sponsor: Joyce Mason.