Have you ever had a picnic in a place that was once owned by a tollbooth operator? The La Bagh Woods Picnic Shelter Grove 1 is the perfect place to enjoy a meal while soaking in some history. This picnic shelter is a real testament to the dedication of Ella LaBagh, who campaigned tirelessly to protect the natural beauty of this area.
Ella LaBagh was a prominent member of the Irving Park Woman’s Club and was known for her love of nature. One day in 1901, while riding her bike along the Chicago River’s north branch, she saw lumbermen cutting down trees, and her anger at the sight spurred her into action. She devoted herself to conservation and played a significant role in establishing forest preserves.
Today, La Bagh Woods is a haven for wildlife. The shelter sits in the heart of a vibrant forest, with diverse natural habitats and abundant birds, mammals, and insects.
You can see a variety of birds, including the Chestnut-sided Warbler, Broad-billed Hummingbird, Indigo Bunting, Baltimore Oriole, and the Black-capped Chickadee. Take a moment to appreciate the vibrant nature that surrounds the shelter.
So, grab your picnic basket and come enjoy the natural beauty and rich history of the La Bagh Woods Picnic Shelter Grove 1! It’s a place where you can enjoy a relaxing meal while appreciating the dedication of Ella LaBagh, who helped turn this once-threatened area into a thriving ecosystem.