Homewood is located in northeastern Illinois in Cook County just south of the Chicago city limits and just north of Chicago Heights along Highway 1. The population estimate for 2000 was about 20,000.
The town was first platted in 1853 and was known as "Hartford". Shortly thereafter, railroads began their expansion and the stop was renamed "Thornton Station" after a family that had established a flour mill here. The final change to Homewood was adopted in 1869 and incorporation was attained in 1893.
Area recreation includes outings to Calumet Country Club. In addition, "Homewood Days", a 3-day festival, is held in mid-July.