As the largest city in Illinois south of Springfield, Belleville maintains a high profile, yet there are a number of fascinating but little-known stories rising from the city's history. Our real estate agents share their five favorite fun facts about Belleville. 

1. Belleville Has a Modest Yet Notable Origin
   A humble one acre of land formed the foundation, literally and figuratively, of Belleville. On March 10, 1814, area resident George Blair donated 25 acres of land, as well as an adjoining acre, to be used as the town square. In recognition of his generosity, Blair was given the honor of selecting the town's name. Blair chose Belleville, a French word which translates to, "beautiful city." The name was approved on August 8, 1814, and the county seat of St. Clair County was moved from Cahokia to the newly-formed, centrally-located city.
   
   
2. Belleville Has a Sister City
   Did you know that Belleville has a sister city located halfway around the globe? On September 2, 1990, a document creating a "sisterhood" between Belleville and Paderborn, Germany, was signed by the mayors of both cities. Founded more than 1,200 years ago, Paderborn has a proud tradition that has given rise to famous landmarks such as the City Cathedral, with its iconic "Window of Three Hares." Sister Cities International is an initiative created by President Dwight D. Eisenhower to promote global unity.
   
   
3. Belleville Has a Historic Philharmonic Orchestra
   One of the highlights of Belleville's thriving cultural scene is the Philharmonic Society of Belleville. Dating back to 1866, the group is the second-oldest continuously performing philharmonic orchestra in the United States. The main orchestra is complemented by a chorale and a youth orchestra. In addition to the annual Masterpiece Series and seasonal events, the Philharmonic features the popular Music in the Neighborhoods Series in various locales around town. Each year, the Philarmonic supports promising young musicians with their Stars of Tomorrow and George N. Tuerck Concerto Competitions.
   
   
4. Belleville Has a Proud Food and Beverage Legacy
   Belleville owes much of the credit for its growth to the large numbers of German immigrants who settled in the area during the mid-19th century. These immigrants brought along their storied tradition of brewing. In 1832, Jacob Fleishbein opened the first brewery in the state, just steps from Belleville's town square. Another German immigrant, Gustav Goetlitz, joined his brother in establishing a local candy company that went on to become Jelly Belly, whose numerous flavors of gourmet jelly beans are enjoyed around the world. 
   
   
5. Belleville Has Nationally-Recognized Buildings and Neighborhoods
   Belleville claims three spots on the prestigious National Register of Historic Places. First is the notable Belleville Historic District, named to the Register in 1976. Many of the homes in this largely residential area are examples of "German street houses," popularized by the city's immigrants but relatively uncommon elsewhere in Illinois. The Knobeloch-Seibert Farm passed through multiple generations of the two families. Listed on the Register in 1983, the property features a barn built in 1844. Finally, the Gustave Koerner House added to the Register in 2004, served as the residence of the politician for whom it's named. 

It's easy to see why Belleville homes for sale are so desirable. Contact us at Strano & Associates Real Estate to learn more.