Cosme Park

A tragic event transformed Cosme Park. It became a symbol of love and remembrance. Cosme Park is nestled in Chicago’s Beverly community. It spans over four acres and offers a variety of recreational activities. It boasts a playground, baseball field, tennis courts, and quiet benches for contemplation. Originally, this green space was slated to be a park at 91st Street and Longwood Avenue, proposed back in 1921 by the Beverly Hills Improvement Association. However, other community groups raised concerns. After years of debate, the idea finally took root. In 1927, with 525 resident signatures, the Ridge Park Board agreed to create the park. The land acquisition started in 1925 and wasn’t finalized until 1936. The original plans included a playground nestled within a lush greenspace, a vision championed by the Beverly Hills Improvement Association and adopted by the Ridge Park District in 1933. Although the playground never materialized as initially planned, the Chicago Park District, after consolidating several independent park boards in 1934, added tennis courts. For a time, the park was informally known as Longwood Park. This became its official name in 1953. Almost forty years later, a heartbreaking tragedy occurred. Young Margaret Cosme, a child from the neighborhood, lost her life in an accident. To honor her memory, the park was renamed Cosme Park, a tribute initiated by the Beverly Improvement Association. Adding to the poignancy, Margaret’s father and grandfather, Luke Cosme, a dedicated Chicago Park District employee, had helped build the park’s baseball diamond in the 1980s. Margaret herself had played Little League on that very field. Cosme Park today is not just a place for recreation. It serves as a touching reminder of a young life, a space where community spirit and remembrance intertwine.