The village of Arlington Heights is located 25 miles northwest of downtown Chicago. With a population of over 75,000, it gained notoriety as the highest populated incorporated village in the country. The community's history dates back to 1835, when the General Land Office started selling the land in what would become Arlington Heights. Initially known as Dunton after William Dunton, who convinced the Illinois and Wisconsin Railroad to make a stop in the area in 1853, the town was established as an early Chicago commuter suburb. Arlington Heights was incorporated in 1887 with a population of 1,000, and today, its motto remains "City of Good Neighbors." Arlington Heights is home to the world-renowned Arlington Park Racetrack, host of the annual "Arlington Million," the first million dollar horse race and a Breeder's Cup qualifying event. Founded in 1927 by Harry 'Curly' Brown, Arlington Park Racetrack now employs 4,500 and has the ability to seat 50,000 spectators and stable over 2,000 horses. Downtown Arlington Heights also offers the Metropolis Performing Arts Centre, which features a large theatre, ballroom, and classrooms. In 2010, scenes from 'A Nightmare on Elm Street' were filmed at John Hersey High School, and in 2008, 'The Lucky Ones' was also shot in Arlington Heights. Notable Arlington Heights residents have included McDonald's founder Ray Kroc, actress Marlee Matlin, You Tube co-founder Steve Chen, musician Ted Nugent and legendary Chicago Bears running back Walter Payton.
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