In the mid-1870s, Lutheran families in the Glenview area sought to establish a congregation faithful to the Lutheran Confessions. This applied to Rev. Adam Detzer of Des Plaines, a pastor affiliated with the Evangelical Lutheran Synod of Missouri, Ohio, and other States. In response, Rev. Detzer began holding services, and by the end of January 1876, the Evangelical Lutheran Church congregation was formally organized.

The first worship services of Immanuel Lutheran Church were held in a schoolhouse on what is now Shermer Road, but when the building had to be moved, the congregation resolved to construct its own church. On March 5, 1876, trustees were elected, and a contract was soon let to build a church on a two-acre site on West Lake Avenue (now Chestnut Avenue). Through generous donations of labor and funds totaling $1,530, the congregation completed the church, laying the cornerstone on April 22, 1876, and dedicating it on June 25, 1876.

At the same time, the congregation decided to build a parsonage and a school, and Rev. John Zimmermann of Rosehill, Texas, accepted the call as the first resident pastor and was joyfully installed, though he resigned after two years due to ill health. During the following vacancy year, pastoral duties were shared by Rev. G. Loeber and Rev. Adam Detzer.

In 1901, Immanuel Lutheran Church celebrated its 25th anniversary—already a testament to faith, sacrifice, and a growing congregation rooted deeply in Christ. What began as a humble gathering of believers continued to grow, step by faithful step, into a lasting presence in the Glenview community.

As the congregation expanded, so did its vision. In 1903, two additional acres were purchased for the cemetery, ensuring a sacred resting place for generations to come. By 1909, worship was enriched with the purchase of a two-manual Hinners & Company pipe organ, and a rear addition to the church provided much-needed space.

In 1916, Immanuel joined the Synod of Missouri, Ohio, and Other States, strengthening its connection to the broader Lutheran Church. The following years brought further land purchases along Chestnut Avenue, laying the groundwork for future church, school, and residential buildings that would serve the congregation for years to come.

"My fondest memories of Immanuel are the people including all the church and school staffs. They were always so kind and gracious. Remembering all of the baptism, Confirmation, graduation, wedding, and anniversary celebrations that I attended where the families were so enjoyable. Senior choir and bell choir praised the Lord in the Divine Service. One event that happened shortly after our arrival was the Women's Guild turkey dinner fundraiser.  From those wonderful women, I learned a lot. Our daughters Rebecca Schilling and Denise Reinsel attended our dear Immanuel Lutheran School from pre-school to 8th grade. Remembering the fun of basketball games, Winterim and much volunteering. This is just a snippet of many great memories. God bless your 150th celebration."

The early 1920s marked a period of growth for Immanuel. A new two-story, eight-room parsonage was dedicated on November 13, 1921, while the former parsonage was moved and repurposed as a gathering place for youth and fellowship. In August 1922, Rev. A. H. Werfelmann was installed as pastor, and the school was expanded and remodeled to meet growing enrollment. That same year, Fred Weber became the first official teacher, and in 1924 the congregation celebrated its first graduating class. In 1926, Immanuel marked its 50th anniversary, giving thanks for five decades of worship, education, and service.

One of the most defining moments in Immanuel’s history came in 1926. On February 28, members gathered at dawn with scrapers, picks, and shovels to excavate the basement of a new church—by hand. In just one week, the work was complete. Cornerstones inscribed with the years 1876 and 1926 were laid that April, and on November 28, the new church building was dedicated to the glory of God.

Kitty Gorski

"I transferred from a public school to Immanuel, from 4th grade - 8th grade graduation. I immediately felt a calm presence upon entering the 4th grade classroom. As years went on, Immanuel became a family-like atmosphere to me.  The teachers guided us not only in studies, but also in living a Christian life with Christian values. I remember Wednesday morning chapel service and Christian movies in the school basement. The school was a place of strong faith and Immanuel helped me to develop and grow my faith in Christ. I have fond memories of playing church at home. My brother was the Pastor and read from the Bible, my sister took up the collection with my grandmothers button collection while I played Christian songs on the, "play by number organ," my father gifted us. My sister and I displayed our wooden crosses (made in Mr. Stahlke's class) on the makeshift alter in the living room. Such a fond memory for us! So many wonderful memories with my church family! It has been such a blessing to have been a part of a church-school that connected us in such a powerful way! I'm proud to say my mother, son, daughter, and many nieces and nephews were a part of the Immanuel School family, as well!"

As Immanuel entered the mid-20th century, growth continued. In 1951, the congregation celebrated its 75th anniversary while simultaneously embarking on another major project: the construction of a new school. During the 1951–1952 school year, classes met in the church basement, creatively divided by plywood partitions—an enduring example of adaptability and commitment to Christian education.

Tragedy struck in the early morning hours of October 3, 1956, when a fire damaged the sanctuary, destroying the pipe organ, stained glass, and basement stage. Yet from loss came renewal. A major renovation followed, bringing a new organ, a rose window, redesigned entrance, offices, and a refreshed sanctuary—symbols of hope rising from hardship.

The influence of Immanuel on my life is evident in numerous ways… Heart of Worship The hymns we sang together at Immanuel still resonate in my heart. I remember how we memorized so many of them—words that have stayed with me and come to mind easily even now. I am forever thankful to the teachers who encouraged us to store God’s Word in our hearts, just like the Psalmist says in chapter 119: “I have stored up your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.” His words are a treasure for Life.

Music and Drama As a third-grader, I joined the Junior Choir under the direction of Mrs. Huebner. The arrival of Mr. Robinson marked a new era in our musical education. I recall diligently preparing a Christmas Cantata to present to the congregation. These formative experiences cultivated a lasting appreciation for music and the performing arts.

Joy of Giving My parents instilled in us the principle of returning ten percent of our earnings to the Lord. I hold dear the memory of placing a silver dime into the Sunday School envelope and depositing it in the velvetlined wooden offering plate. These practices fostered a spirit of stewardship of God’s many gifts.

Service to Others Following confirmation, young people were encouraged to join the Walther League, named in honor of the LCMS’ first synodical president. This student-led organization provided opportunities for social and service activities. Each Christmas, we rehearsed carols and visited local nursing homes and Immanuel’s shut-ins to offer Christmas cheer. At Easter, we organized, prepared, and served the annual Easter Breakfast.

Immanuel has shaped so much of who I am, and I pray that God continues to bless this community as it carries His mission forward for another 150 years. Happy Anniversary, Immanuel!