Step into Edison Park and let me take you back in time. It’s a neighborhood named after a world-renowned inventor, Thomas Edison. Can you believe that the man responsible for the lightbulb took a liking to this community?
The story begins in 1834 with the arrival of a German family. They settled on land between what are now Touhy and Devon Avenues. It was then called “Dutchman’s Point”, a nod to the family’s German heritage. This land was once a portage for early travelers who carried their canoes across the watershed divide between the Des Plaines and Chicago Rivers.
The area wasn’t always known as Edison Park. It was first called “Canfield”. Then, in 1890, it was renamed in honor of Thomas Edison after developers promoted the availability of electricity. Can you imagine, the town’s history intertwined with the advent of electricity? The community grew; more people arrived, and Edison Park became a thriving suburb.
Now, take a moment to look around. Can you see Ebinger school, named after one of the founding families? They were deeply involved in shaping the community, with members serving as Village Collector, Assessor, and Highway Commissioner. Even today, echoes of their presence linger in the neighborhood’s rich history.
Today, Edison Park continues to be a cherished part of Chicago, known for its strong community spirit and Irish heritage. You might even find some historical plaques or homes that whisper tales of generations past. So, next time you hear someone mention Edison Park, think of that German family, the early travelers, and Mr. Edison himself, each contributing to the narrative that makes this place unique.