Catalpa Playlot Park
History
The Chicago Park District created Catalpa Park in 1970 to fill a pressing need for safe recreational opportunities for children in the Archer Heights neighborhood, a heavily industrial area. The park takes its name from the catalpa tree, which grows to a height of 30 to 90 feet. The catalpa is a popular ornamental tree because it can survive in poor soil and hot, dry areas. The tree produces fruit called the Indian cigar, which stays on the tree through the winter, and releases winged, papery seeds in the spring.