What Do You Want at Holstein?

Bucktown Arts Fest and Friends of Holstein Park, two nonprofits serving the neighborhood, want to help provide programming that appeals to our community at Holstein Park.

 

Take the short survey!

 

History of the Park
In 1854, real estate speculators Sherman, Clark, and Westmore reserved two acres of their subdivision as Holstein Park to enhance the area and its property values. The surrounding area was known as Holstein, an enclave of laborers and craftsmen from Schleswig – Holstein, now a region of Germany.

Although the developers expected the city to beautify Holstein Park, it remained unimproved for more than 40 years.

Finally, in 1901, the city transferred the park to the West Park System, which made initial improvements. By 1910, the West Park Commissioners had created several new neighborhood parks offering residents of the surrounding congested neighborhoods important services and programs such as public bathing, English lessons and other classes, and athletics.

In 1912, the handsome Holstein Park brick fieldhouse, designed by Illinois state architect William Carbys Zimmermann, opened to the public.

In 1917, the park commissioners enlarged Holstein Park by purchasing 16 lots north of what is now Palmer Street. Visionary designer Jens Jensen conceived a plan to combine Holstein Park with the adjacent Logan School. He hoped to build a new school, a separate gymnasium and an indoor swimming facility. He also wanted to create prairie-like playfields, council rings, an outdoor theater and school gardens. Although the commissioners began negotiating with the Board of Education, the plan was never realized. Jensen’s innovative idea was ahead of its time.

The Survey
Today, Holstein Park hosts all kinds of activities designed to serve the needs of families, teens and senior citizens.

To help us better serve the community, please take a few minutes to fill out this survey and then be sure to pass it on in your friends and neighbors.

 

Take the short survey!

 

 

Thank you for your feedback!