A tiny patch of green in Avondale. That’s Nelson Park. But don’t let its size fool you. This unassuming park holds a surprising history.
Nelson Park is a small 0.15 acres. It sits in the Avondale neighborhood. It’s just two blocks south of Belmont Avenue and two blocks west of California Avenue. Children love its soft surface playground.
The land for Nelson Park was acquired by the City of Chicago way back in 1916. However its transformation into a real playground happened later. As World War II ended the city needed more spaces for children. By 1945 this lot became a lively playlot. It had a sandbox a spray pool a jungle gym and even courts for basketball horseshoes and hopscotch. Imagine the sounds of children’s laughter echoing through the years.
In 1957 Nelson Park became part of the Chicago Park District. This was part of a larger transfer of over 200 properties. The park district upgraded it over the years. A new soft surface playground was installed in 1992. A spring 2015 renovation added to its charm.
The park’s name isn’t random. It honors Andrew Nelson a real estate speculator. He was a commissioner for Lincoln Park from 1869 to 1871. The practice was to name parks after nearby streets. So Nelson Park quietly bears witness to this significant figure’s legacy.
Today Nelson Park continues to serve its community. It’s a small but vital part of Avondale’s fabric. A place where generations of children have played and continue to play. It’s a testament to the city’s commitment to providing green spaces. It’s a quiet corner of history. It is a vibrant space of play and community. A small park with a big story. Nelson Park. Remember it.