Walking Tour: The Rogers Park Community

 

Viaduct in Rogers Park (Photo by Vincent Francone) 

Rogers Park is an exciting community within the city of Chicago. Its history dates back to the 19th century when the neighborhood was colonized at the convergence of two Indigenous trails before modern metro Chicago. An Irishman named Phillip Rogers purchased 1,600 acres of land in the area from 1830 to 1856. 

Its population as of 2020 consists of 55,628 residents and is home to a diverse group of people from all walks of life. Some of its noteworthy landmarks are represented in the map below. 

 

There is Indian Boundary Park located at 2500 W. Lunt Ave.
Chicago, IL 60645. This park had a very interesting and unique playground that I remember visiting when growing up. According to the Chicago Park District, "Indian Boundary Park takes its name from a territorial boundary established by the Treaty of 1816 between the Pottawattomie Indians and the U.S. government". The park's field house won an award for Preservation Excellence by the Commission on Chicago Landmarks.

Secondly, there is the Honeybear Cafe located at 7036 North Clark Street, Chicago, IL, 60626. According to their website, "Originally known as The Captain's Table and then the A&T Grill, this beloved establishment served the neighborhood for five decades under its original owners, a husband and wife team. In 2020, George and Prudence, bringing their family to the neighborhood that George grew up in, took over, bringing fresh life to the space while honoring its past". Growing up I knew this restaurant as A&T Grill, or as my family would often mispronounce "AT&T". I will always remember the Mickey Mouse pancakes.

Third, there is Loyola Beach which is located at 1230 W. Greenleaf Ave. (Greenleaf Ave. @ Lake Michigan) Chicago, IL 60626. This beach has a 2/3 mile walking trail along the beach and Lake Michigan. I remember doing beach clean-ups as a kid and my dad shooting photos along the beach in the early morning.

Fourth, Pottawattomie Park located at 7340 N. Rogers Ave. Chicago, IL 60626. I will admit I was afraid to go to this park as a kid because I was scared of the older kids who used to hang out there from the neighborhood. But, this park held a big place in my heart for the memories like getting elote for my mom and getting snowcones during the summer. Also, I used to practice skateboarding on the basketball court.

Last, but certainly not least, is the Rogers Park Fruit Market. It is located at 7401 North Clark Street, Chicago, IL, 60626. This fruit market has more than just your standard fruits and vegetables, they also stock Latin American and Caribbean food as well from the meat market and also on the shelves as well.