Chicago’s vibrant lakefront is home to numerous parks and beaches, each with its unique story. Among them, the Margaret T. Burroughs Beach and Park, situated at 31st Street, stands as a testament to both the city’s rich history and the remarkable contributions of one of its most influential figures. This 29.75-acre haven within Burnham Park is more than just a recreational space; it’s a living tribute to Margaret T. Burroughs, an artist, historian, and community leader who left an indelible mark on Chicago and the nation.
Honoring a Chicago Icon: Margaret T. Burroughs
Born Margaret Taylor Goss in 1917, Burroughs’ journey brought her to Chicago during the Great Migration. Her dedication to art, education, and African American history is woven into the fabric of the city. She co-founded the South Side Community Art Center in the late 1930s, a pivotal institution nurtured by Eleanor Roosevelt’s support. Her artistic talents graced museums nationwide, while her cultural leadership extended to initiatives like the Negro Hall of Fame.
Perhaps her most enduring legacy is the DuSable Museum of African American History, which she and her husband Charles Burroughs established in their Bronzeville home in the early 1960s. It blossomed from humble beginnings into a nationally recognized museum, finding its permanent home in Washington Park in 1973. Burroughs’ commitment to public service also saw her appointed to the Chicago Park District Board of Commissioners in 1986, where she championed cultural centers and the recognition of women in Chicago’s park system.
From Sandy Strip to Burnham Park Gem at 31st Street
The story of Margaret T. Burroughs Beach and Park is intertwined with the broader narrative of Burnham Park and Chicago’s lakefront development. In the early 20th century, as Chicago’s population grew, the demand for public beaches surged. With existing beaches far from the South Side, residents informally claimed a sandy stretch near 31st Street for recreation. This area, between 25th and 29th Streets, became an unofficial bathing spot, highlighting the community’s need for accessible lakefront spaces.
Recognizing this need, Chicago voters approved significant funding in 1920 to create an extensive lakefront park, built entirely on landfill. Named Burnham Park in 1927 in honor of city planner Daniel Burnham, the area hosted the Century of Progress World’s Fair in the 1930s. Following the fair, the Chicago Park District, with support from the Works Progress Administration (WPA), invested in improvements throughout the 1930s. These enhancements included playfields, walkways, tennis and basketball courts, and notably, the formalized 31st Street Beach and its original beach house.
A Modern Lakefront Destination
As the 21st century approached, Burnham Park underwent further revitalization. The Army Corps of Engineers undertook a significant project to reconstruct the shoreline from 26th to 56th Streets. This initiative not only protected the shoreline but also expanded the lakefront green space and facilitated the creation of a new harbor south of 31st Street.
Today, Margaret T. Burroughs Beach and Park at 31st Street stands as a vibrant part of Burnham Park, offering residents and visitors a place to connect with nature, history, and community. It’s a place where the legacy of Margaret T. Burroughs lives on, inspiring future generations with her dedication to art, culture, and the city of Chicago.
Alt text details for images:
- Image 1 Alt: Margaret T. Burroughs, founder of the DuSable Museum of African American History, engaging with exhibits at her museum, highlighting her expertise and experience in African American art and history.
- Image 2 Alt: Scenic view of the Burnham Park lakefront path near 31st Street Beach in Chicago, showcasing the accessibility and recreational opportunities at this key location within Burnham Park.
