Location:
4330 S. Kedvale Ave.
Chicago, IL 60632
Supervisor:
Maria Pulido Ponce (Curie Park)
Phone Numbers:
Main
(773) 284-7029
Hours
Park Hours
Description
Kujawa (Chester Frank) Park totals 0.49 acres and is located in the Archer Heights Community. The park features a playground, swings and water feature. In Fall 2015, the playground at Kujawa (Chester Frank) Park was renovated as part of Mayor Emanuel’s Chicago Plays! Program.
While there is no structured programming taking place at this location, we invite you to check out our great programs offered at nearby Curie Park.
History
The Chicago Park District acquired property and created Catalpa Park in 1971 to fill a pressing need for safe recreational opportunities for children in the Archer Heights Community Area, a heavily industrial area.
The park was originally named for 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.
In January of 2021, the Chicago Park District renamed the park in honor of Chester Frank Kujawa. Chester Frank Kujawa was born on the south side of Chicago on May 15, 1924. On February 19, 1945, his marine division landed on the sandy beaches of Iwo Jima during World War II. There were 323 marines who landed on the island and Chester and his company fought for thirty-six days until the Japanese finally surrendered. Chester Frank Kujawa, then 20 years old, was one out of the only four survivors of his company.
Chester Frank Kujawa, resided in the Archer Heights Community Area before his passing on December 12, 2016. On September 18, 2019, the Mayor and members of the Chicago City Council passed a resolution to honor the courageous actions of Marine Kujawa and the 5th Marine Division, recommending the Chicago Park District rename Catalpa Park in his honor.
Map & Facilities
