Rutherford Sayre Park

Location and Size

Located in Chicago's Montclare community, Rutherford Sayre Park sprawls across a generous 13.94 acres. It sits right at the edge of where Chicago meets Elmwood Park, with Oak Park Avenue forming its eastern boundary.

Rich History

This green oasis has roots deeper than most people realize. Before World War I, it began as three separate parks, gifts from two local families - the Sayres and Rutherfords - who'd farmed and later subdivided the surrounding land.

The western sections were once part of the Sayre homestead, purchased by William E. Sayre way back in the early 1830s. Meanwhile, the eastern portion came courtesy of Thomas A. Rutherford, who served as the area's first postmaster.

In 1916, the Northwest Park District started sprucing up the area north of the Chicago, Milwaukee, and St. Paul railroad tracks, building a fieldhouse complete with an assembly hall and gymnasium.

The park joined the Chicago Park District family in 1934 during a massive consolidation that brought together the Northwest Park District and 21 other park districts. More land was added from the City of Chicago in 1957.

It wasn't until 1999 that the Chicago Park District officially merged the three adjacent parks (Rutherford, Sayre, and Rutherford Sayre) into what is now known as Rutherford Sayre Park.

Facilities and Amenities

If you're a fitness enthusiast or just looking for some outdoor fun, you'll find plenty of options here. The fieldhouse houses a fitness center, gymnasium, and kitchen.

Step outside and you'll come across tennis courts, baseball fields, basketball courts, and soccer fields spread across the grounds. Kids particularly love the playground, where local families gather while little ones burn off energy.

On hot summer days, the splash pad becomes the park's most popular spot. You'll also find fitness equipment stationed around the park and restrooms when nature calls. Don't forget to bring a water bottle - drinking fountains are available to keep you hydrated during your visit.

Natural Features

The park's open grassy areas offer a wonderful spot to throw down a blanket for a picnic, read a book, or just take a peaceful stroll. These green spaces provide a welcome breath of fresh air amid the urban bustle.

If you're lucky, you might spot some local wildlife. There have even been occasional coyote sightings - a reminder that nature finds ways to thrive even in city settings.

Programs and Activities

Year-round, Rutherford Sayre Park buzzes with activity. From sports leagues and fitness classes to arts and crafts workshops, there's something happening almost every day. The community garden hosts various nature programs that bring neighbors together.

When school's out for summer, the park's six-week day camp becomes a haven for local youth looking for fun and friendship.