Even with Irish Pirate’s huge spoiler, no one came forward to name this nabe. The park in question is indeed Sherman Park, and it’s located in the Back of the Yards neighborhood, or, if you prefer, the New City community area. (Either name would have sufficed.)
Joe and I spent a few minutes driving through Back of the Yards this week, following our trip to Lexington Square in Bridgeport, and stumbled upon Sherman Park on way down to Garfield Boulevard. It’s yet another great Chicago park, one that dates back to 1905 and that was designed by the Olmsted Brothers and Daniel H. Burnham & Co. It’s named after Union Stock Yards founder John Sherman, who happened to be Burnham’s father-in-law.
After seeing the geese congregating in the park’s circular lagoon, we couldn’t help but roll the camera. Our bird videos always draw an audience.
This could’ve aired at the end of CBS Sunday Morning. No voiceovers or nothing just geese and ducks making their sounds. I only wish the city could create new parks like this will all their lagoons. We really do have some treasures in our parks.
It’s just a shame that the good people of that neighborhood can’t enjoy that park the way they should be able to. The only way I would wander in there is very early in the morning and I’d still be extremely wary and not wander far from my car. I remember that park when it was a destination for families. Another gem that is pactically off limits to those not there to prey.
I was born in this neighborhood (1941) at 51st and Loomis. I would appreciate any photos of Sherman Park or the area.
Greg,
See Joe’s post from last week, which has a few shots from the park.
Flickr is an amazing resource. If you search there for some of the landmarks you remember, e.g. schools, churches, restaurants, you’re likely to find photos.
Greg,
I was born @ 5007 South Bishop – 03.17.30 – Attended St. John of God (1943) & Tilden (1947). Rich Nowak and Todd Cieslak lived on your block. We must have some things in common. Would love to hear from you. Regards, Henry T.