Morgan Park Civic League

AN INTRODUCTION TO MORGAN PARK

Jun 16, 2003

Travel back in time with me to the late 1930?’s and early 1940?’s. Located on the far South Side, in the low land just east of Beverly Hills, was a small but enterprising Negro community known as Morgan Park. This community was bound by 107th St. on the north, the Pennsylvania Railroad tracks on the east, St. on the south, and Vincennes Rd. on the west. It consisted of single family dwellings and afforded a refuge and haven for many of it?’s residents who were seeking to escape the over-crowded conditions of the South Side Black mes, educating children, operating businesses, and raising crops.

Many families became home owners for the first time. Children attended either the John D. Shoop Public Elementary School or the Holy Name of Mary Catholic Elementary School. There were all types of businesses owned and operated by individuals living within the community. Approximately five Baptist Churches, a Methodist Church, a Catholic and Episcopal Church, provided a variety of denominational worship services. There were recreational facilities and well-frequented parks which offered activities for the youth and adults alike. Yes, this community was as a fertile field in which seeds of hope were planted and it produced a bountiful harvest.

The children of these settlers have gone on to become viable assets to society. For out of this Morgan Park community came architects, doctors, lawyers, educators, entrepreneurs, legislators, entertainers, athletes, homemakers police and firemen. One young man even competed in the Olympics.

The people of Morgan Park had a strong respect for family and community. They took pride in carrying out moral and civic obligations. Moreover, they valued the importance of a good education for their children.

As with many communities, there have been numerous changes through the years. Today, ?“old?” Morgan Park is commonly referred to as East Morgan Park. Some call it the ?“hood?” and some outsiders call it the ?“ghetto?”. But Morgan Park/East Morgan Park has deep roots and a rich history that cannot ever be erased. This unique Black community will always have a special place in the minds and hearts of many, and certainly deserves recognition in any historical discourse of Chicago. Morgan Park has passed on a rich legacy to all who value the ?“I will?” spirit of this great city.

Written by Beverly Hale (So. Ada Street)