Those colorful tiles. They tell a story don’t they? Welcome to Senior Citizens Memorial Playlot Park. This isn’t just any park. It’s a vibrant piece of Logan Square history. Senior Citizens Memorial Playlot Park sits on land that was once Logan Elementary School. The school closed in 1972. The city quickly decided to turn the space into a park.
Initially there were plans for tennis courts. However by 1977 the focus shifted. The city created recreational areas for the neighborhood’s older residents. Think shuffleboard courts and game tables. Can you imagine the lively games that have taken place here? The laughter the friendly competition?
In 1979 the city transferred the land to the Chicago Park District. It was then known as Logan Elderly Park. A year later it was officially renamed Senior Citizens Memorial Park. This happened thanks to Alderman Terry Gabinski and the Senior Citizens of Holstein Park.
Notice the unique artwork. The colorful tile mosaics on the knee walls and benches? They’re a testament to community spirit. The Bucktown Arts Fest a non-profit organization created them. Every summer since 1986 the festival showcases local artists. All proceeds go to arts and educational programming in the area.
From 1999 to 2009 children participating in the festival’s Kids’ Tent painted ceramic tiles. These tiles are now a permanent part of the park’s decor. They depict birds butterflies flowers trees even Cubs and Sox logos. Each tile is signed with the child’s name and the year it was painted. It’s a wonderful blend of community art and local history. It’s a treasure hunt waiting to happen. Children who painted the tiles can come back and find their own artwork.
Senior Citizens Memorial Playlot Park. It’s more than just a park. It’s a living testament to the community’s dedication to art recreation and preserving history. It’s a place where stories are not just told but lived.