Palmer Square Park Makes History as Chicago's First Arboretum

By Socialhood News · Il/Chicago/Palmer Square · October 17, 2025

Palmer Square Park has officially been named Chicago's first arboretum by the ArbNet Arboretum Accreditation Program, administered by the Morton Arboretum in suburban Lisle. The nearly eight-acre park, which boasts 28 species of trees, has earned this distinction as the Northwest Side's first urban arboretum, giving more weight to tree preservation and education in the area.

This recognition comes after decades of community effort. The Homeowners Association of Palmer Square has been working since 1980 to create a tree sanctuary in the park. When homeowner Steve Hier moved to the area and founded the association, the park had only about 37 trees. Through consistent planting efforts every spring and fall, funded by donations and fundraisers, the park now houses over 200 trees.

Looking ahead, Palmer Square residents can participate in Logan Square Preservation's upcoming house walk on September 20th, which will focus on Palmer Square and feature historical homes and architecturally significant buildings. During this community event, vintage cars from the Lambda Car Club and Windy City Classics will be displayed in the 3000 block of Palmer Square, and artist Jock Holmen will showcase his Norwegian wood carvings, celebrating Logan Square's Norwegian heritage. As Laura Irons from the preservation group noted, "This year, since it's all on Palmer, we're trying to make it a really community feel."

Sources:
1. https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/10/07/palmer-square-park-named-chicago-park-districts-first-arboretum/
2. https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/09/12/neighbors-can-explore-historical-palmer-square-homes-and-gardens-during-preservation-walk/