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Citizens Creating a Legacy

In June 2007, Citizens Park opened its proverbial doors to a throng of hundreds. Eager enthusiasm and anticipation of the day’s events filled the air. This was the moment that all had waited for and worked so hard to make happen. It was the crowning glory to months and years of hard work.

From conception to finish, residents worked together in giving something back to their community that became a shining star. Friends, families, community leaders and visitors all came together to form, build and present this park to Barrington. It was a demonstration to what is possible and attainable through the loyal support of a vision and a commitment to community. These citizens have given Barrington one of the most beautiful and functional parks in Illinois. Citizens Park is a living, working creation to Barring-ton’s pledge in preserving open space for all in the community. It is a creation to enjoy, to relax in and to admire. The abounding beauty displayed can only come from a deep understanding of how important sharing is to the circle of life. This sharing — of ideas, time and self — has yielded so many beautiful structures working in and with nature’s own true beauty.

Pepper Family Treehouse covers 2,000 square feet overlooking the 600-acre Cuba Marsh. The treehouse, built to be universally accessible, contains ramps leading to an open-air deck, a gazebo and an enclosed cabin. The treehouse cabin can easily accommodate up to 40 people. Equipped with electricity, the treehouse can sustain auxiliary lighting for any special events or functions. Donations helped fund the entire project, with Barrington’s Pepper Family generously donating $200,000. This treehouse, a joint effort between the Northern Illinois Special Recreation Association (NISRA) Foundation and the Barrington Park District, is the first of its kind in the State of Illinois. The Daniel Flaherty Park Excellence Award was presented to NISRA and the Barrington Park District in February 2007. This award recognizes outstanding park facilities and programs throughout the U.S.

The Robert G. Soule Amphitheater, named after our Park Board Secretary-Treasurer of 45 years and long-time resident, is located on the west end of the park. It hosts a variety of entertainment, educational and special events with 75-100 terraced seats, all part of the park’s natural terrain.

Jewel Tea Pavilion, a 2,910 square foot structure, is the focal point of Citizens Park. The pavilion boasts custom-made, glass panel doors from Germany and an indoor/outdoor wood-burning fireplace with patio. Here you have a beautiful, unobstructed view of Cuba Marsh and the 10-acre Kampert Meadow — named after the Kampert family who owned the property from 1867 until 1927 when they sold it to the Jewel Tea Company. With a concession stand, drinking fountains and restrooms, the Pavilion is the perfect spot for all types of seasonal, community activities.

John Larkin Bell Gazebo, named after the original landscape architect of the former Jewel Tea Company, is at the center of the park. The stone-pillared gazebo offers a panoramic view of the park in peaceful surroundings, making it ideal for family celebrations and events. Limestone paths winding through the park help guide visitor’s footsteps from the gazebo to the waterfalls or pavilion.

Natural Rock Waterfalls greets visitors at the entrance of Citizens Park. The falls, made up of over 43 tons of granite boulders and gravel, contains a large variety of aquatic plants. Illuminated in the evenings, it creates a breathtaking view. Flowing in the spring, summer and fall, it is a beautiful sight to view and capture.

The Lodge contains over 1,700 square feet with an indoor/outdoor fireplace, indoor restrooms and outdoor drinking fountains. Its rustic atmosphere provides a perfect warm and cozy setting for up to 40 guests to enjoy throughout the year. It is also home to the district’s maintenance garage and warming shelter.

Citizens Park has two rental shelters available. Located on the north and southeastern ends of the park, the shelter’s unique stone facades and angled timber roofs complement all the structures in Citizens Park. Recreational activities are available with two basketball courts and four lighted tennis courts on the east side of the park.

“Citizens Park is a great asset for the residents of Barrington,” said Teresa Jennings, Barrington Park District Executive Director. “I am proud to be a part of it.” This dedication to land by the people who live on it and respect it is a reflection of the pride and devotion they have in their community, their neighbors and themselves. It truly is a Citizens Park.