Morgan Park in Chicago
Morgan Park, on the far southern end of Chicago, stands out as one of the city’s 77 officially recognized community areas. This neighborhood, set south of Beverly and north of the city’s borderline, encompasses Mount Greenwood Cemetery. Morgan Park, with its origins tracing back to the mid-19th century, was initially identified as North Blue Island, due to its geographical proximity to the already established town of Blue Island located further south.
Early Settlement
Morgan Park’s history is deeply rooted in the mid-19th century. It was originally recognized as North Blue Island, owing to its geographical correlation to the pre-existing Blue Island town situated further south and its position on the Blue Island Ridge. Thomas Morgan, born in Surrey, England, emerged as the area’s largest property owner. He acquired all the land that today is demarcated by 91st St. on the north, 119th St. on the south, Western Avenue on the west, and approximately Vincennes Ave. to the east.
Morgan had migrated to the United States in 1843, briefly establishing himself in Albany, New York. He was the progeny of a London-based banker and inherited a substantial fortune from his father. Morgan utilized this wealth to establish himself on the ridge in 1844, where he cleared trees and managed a cattle and sheep ranch for the next quarter of a century.
Suburban Development
In 1869, the Blue Island Land and Building Company embarked on an extensive development project. They purchased three thousand acres of this property from the Morgan family, laying out streets, planting thousands of trees, and constructing houses. The company’s objective was to build a suburban community that provided an escape from the pollution and nuisances that were becoming increasingly intolerable in the city.
Neighborhood Amenities
Morgan Park offers an array of amenities that cater to the diverse needs of its residents. The neighborhood is home to several educational institutions, sports centers, libraries, and shopping plazas, each contributing to the vibrant community life.
Morgan Park Academy
Morgan Park Academy is a prominent educational institution in the neighborhood. It offers a comprehensive curriculum, contributing to the academic growth of students in the area.
George C. Walker Public Library
The George C. Walker Public Library serves as a hub for knowledge and learning. It provides access to a wide range of books and other resources, fostering a culture of reading and lifelong learning among residents.
Morgan Park Sports Center
The Morgan Park Sports Center is a state-of-the-art facility providing residents with opportunities for physical fitness and recreation. It boasts a variety of sports facilities, encouraging an active lifestyle among residents.
Marshfield Shopping Plaza
For those who love shopping, the Marshfield Shopping Plaza offers a variety of stores and services. From grocery stores to fashion outlets, the plaza caters to the diverse shopping needs of residents.
Ada Park & Community Center
The Ada Park & Community Center is another highlight of the neighborhood. The park provides open green spaces for relaxation and recreation, while the community center hosts a variety of events and activities for residents of all ages.
Noteworthy Personalities
Morgan Park has been home to several notable individuals who have significantly contributed to various fields. These include Lee Bernet, a professional offensive tackle who played for the Denver Broncos, and Emmet Byrne, a U.S. House of Representatives member from Illinois’s 3rd congressional district. The neighborhood was also the childhood home of Peter Cetera, a founding member of the band Chicago, and Mae Jemison, the first African-American woman to travel in space as part of a NASA crew.
Morgan Park in Popular Culture
Morgan Park has also found its place in popular culture. In the play “A Raisin in the Sun”, Lena Younger reminisces about her early life as a married woman with dreams of buying a “two-story house” in Morgan Park.
Morgan Park, with its rich history, vibrant community life, and diverse amenities, is a unique neighborhood in Chicago. Its evolution from an early settlement to a suburban community reflects the dynamic growth and development of the city. Today, Morgan Park continues to thrive, offering its residents a unique blend of suburban tranquility and city life.
