Old Edgebrook - Mary Berkemeier Quinn Park of
Trees
This is the second cache I have placed in historic landmark
district of Old Edgebrook - a Chicago neighborhood ensconsed in
forest preserve land on Chicago's far northwest side.
This distinctive example of a railroad suburb, platted in
1894 by businessman and alderman Arthur Dixon, was built near the
Chicago, Milwaukee, and St. Paul Railway. Many of the community's
early residents were company officials and the buildings represent
a variety of architectural styles, most notably Colonial Revival
and Queen Anne. Surrounded by the Cook County Forest Preserve, Old
Edgebrook's rural ambience makes it atypical for a neighborhood
located in a major metropolitan area.
The location of this cache takes you to the "back" of the Old
Edgebrook Neighborhood to the Mary Berkemeier Quinn
Park-of-Trees.
This scenic grove of native trees was a gift to the Chicago Park
District from Edward M. Quinn - whose house and garage formerly
stood here - in memory of his wife, Mary. He instructed in his Will
that the buildings be removed, and a minimum of 21 trees "be
preserved and replenished."
Before the trees leaf out in the summer, early spring
wildflowers such as trilliom, spring beauty and trout lily take
advantage of the sunlight and carpet the ground. More
shade-tolerant wildflowers, grasses and sedges come up later.
Birds, butterflies, other wildlife and people enjoy the peaceful
woodland habitat in all seasons.
As part of the Chicago Park District's Nature Areas program,
Quinn's wishes for this woodland are assured.
This area is also a designated Bird & Butterfly
Sanctuary.
Should be an easy park-and-grab cache. Enjoy this beautiful
little park and the historic surrounding landmark neighborhood.
