“A model vest-pocket park,” the architect had declared, and indeed, Cornell Park, right before your eyes, does seem to fit the description. Don’t let its diminutive size fool you, though. This little green haven, nestled in the heart of Chicago’s Hyde Park neighborhood, has a surprisingly big story to tell.
Cornell Park came into being in the 1970s, a time when Hyde Park was undergoing a major transformation. The neighborhood, once facing decline, was experiencing a resurgence. New apartments, townhomes, and shopping centers were popping up, leading to concerns about dwindling green spaces. That’s when local community groups, determined to preserve a piece of nature amidst the urban renewal, stepped in. They joined forces with the Open Lands Project, a non-profit organization dedicated to protecting natural and open spaces. Together, they successfully lobbied for the creation of Cornell Park, a testament to the power of community action and the importance of green spaces in a bustling city.
The park’s name pays homage to Paul Cornell, a prominent figure in Chicago’s history. Cornell, a lawyer and real estate developer, is credited with founding the Hyde Park community. He was instrumental in establishing the South Park Commission, the precursor to the Chicago Park District. He envisioned parks as the “lungs” of the city, essential for the well-being of its residents, a vision that continues to resonate within Cornell Park today.