HISTORY OF
Wheaton Regional Park
by Don Leslie (1970)
The original plan for Wheaton Regional Park was placed in the Master Plan in July 1956. It was approved by the Park and Planning Commission that same year. Public hearings on it were held in connection with the adoption of the 1957 - 58 Budget. A total of $1,980,000 was appropriated for the purchase of 496 acres for Wheaton Regional Park, and for initial purchase of land for the Cabin John Park. The actual purchase of some 42 pieces of property was started in 1958 by Mr. Hewitt of the Park and Planning Commission, continuing until completion in 1960. Ultimately, a total of exactly 500 acres were purchased, the entire $1,980,000 having been used exclusively for Wheaton Regional Park.
Development of the property into a Park began in 1960 with the construction of the campsites. The Nature Center also was completed, and work was started on Old MacDonald's Farm that same year. The Lake was completed in 1961, the Riding Stable and the Athletic Fields (baseball, softball, basket- ball, tennis, handball) in 1962. The Artificial Ice Rink was opened in 1968.
The final feature, the Arboretum, was completed during the Spring and Summer of 1969 and opened to the public on July 13, 1969.
In addition to the main facilities mentioned above, the Park also features bicycle trails, bridle trails, a miniature railroad and picnic grounds. For the last six summers an annual series of "concerts in the Park" has been one of the most delightful programs offered by the Park.
The old Shorefield House, now serving as headquarters for the Park Police, is of considerable historical interest dating back to the early 1800's.
The Park has been a resounding success. It is one of the largest and best equipped parks in the metropolitan area and is used by many thousands of people each year, both from the immediate vicinity and from more distant areas. Lying adjacent to Springbrook Forest and incorporating some of the original land in the "Second Addition To Culvers Chance, " the Park has been a source of great personal interest and satisfaction to many "Foresters". It has been per- haps one of the most important external elements in forming the special character and attractiveness of Springbrook Forest.