Harold Washington Park

History and Background

Originally known as East End Park when it was acquired by the city in 1903, it was renamed in 1992 to honor Harold Washington, Chicago's first African-American mayor. The park has a rich history dating back to the early 1900s when it was part of Paul Cornell's vision for the Hyde Park area.

This 25.21-acre public park is located in the Hyde Park neighborhood on the South Side of Chicago, Illinois. The park sits along the lakefront, bounded by East 53rd Street to the south, South Hyde Park Boulevard to the west, and Lake Shore Drive to the east.

Features and Amenities

The park's most notable feature is a model yacht basin, which has hosted model yacht competitions since the 1930s. The park also contains tennis courts, picnic areas, and a children's playground with modern equipment.

One of the park's unique attractions was a colony of monk parakeets that nested in the park's trees from the 1980s until 2004. These bright green birds became unofficial mascots of the park and were particularly associated with Mayor Washington, who lived across the street.

Community Value

Harold Washington Park provides a valuable green space and recreational area for the Hyde Park community. Its lakefront location offers visitors scenic views of Lake Michigan and provides access to the lakefront trail system.

The park serves as a popular spot for picnicking, sports activities, and community gatherings throughout the year.