Dune Acres
History
Founded in 1923, William Wirt, then Superintendent of the Gary Public Schools, spearheaded the development of the Town of Dune Acres as an upscale community akin to those found on Chicago's North Shore.
Prior to World War II, Dune Acres' growth was brisk. It was during this time that many of the town's classic log cabins were built. At the center of early town life was: (i) its Guesthouse, a small hotel that had twelve guestrooms; (ii) its Clubhouse, whose dining room served the community; and (iii) its Golf Course, which was returned back to parkland during the depression years.
As a result of the Depression and then World War II, the town's direction changed. Its growth slowed, and it did not become the grand suburb that was envisioned by Mr. Wirt. Rather, it remained more like a summer colony with few year-round residents.
After World War II, however, Dune Acres began its move from summer destination to year-round community. During the 1950s and 1960s, homes by such noted architects as Keck & Keck, Perkins and Will, Crombie Taylor and Richard Neutra were built.
By the 1980s, it was a well-established municipality; and, in 1985, the Dune Acres Civic Improvement Foundation was organized, which has over the years spearheaded numerous projects throughout the town.
Today, Dune Acres is a quiet residential community that has managed to retain its "summer resort" feeling. Once past the guardhouse at the only entrance into town, residents continue to enjoy its Clubhouse, tennis courts, soccer field, ice skating rink and many other amenities.
