Weaver Park

In February 1971, the Washington Park District accepted a gift of 5.6 acres of land from Mr. and Mrs. Glenn Weaver, which is today known as Weaver Park. Even before the donation, the property was serving as a nature trail, albeit on private property. The Park District planned to keep it that way and install a walking path.

When the park was purchased, it had a beaver dam. The beavers had just arrived in the park area in the fall of 1970 to construct their dam, having come from further upstream (east), where they had formerly built a dam.

As time progressed and attention on this new area grew, the beaver dam became a concern for some.  Farm Creek, which was only a few inches deep along the entire stretch of the park, had now been clogged to a point where it reached six feet deep in one spot.  Some considered that to be a danger to children in the area.

Residents went to the city council to complain about the dam and its dangers, as well as about the potential for the area to become a mosquito breeding ground due to the stagnant water. At that meeting, the city decided to trap the animals.

However, the beavers did have their share of supporters. Several neighbors liked the dam and the new wildlife it brought, while others enjoyed watching them frolic.

In early 1972, the beavers were relocated to Forest Park Preserve in Peoria.

Weaver Park remains in the same natural state as when it was acquired.