In 1991, Waters School’s grounds were barren: solid asphalt for nearly an entire city block. But encased in the pavement at the south end of the lot were four colossal bur oak trees that predate the city of Chicago’s founding. Inspired by the grandfather oaks, the community—students, parents, teachers, and neighbors—steadily began chipping away at the asphalt and planting gardens in its place.
After more than 30 years of hard restoration and stewardship work, Waters Garden now boasts more than 150 species of native plants and dozens of vegetable beds tended by students and community members. We stand in awe of the space created by our community and Mother Earth, an oasis in the middle of a bustling city neighborhood filled with berries, peace, beauty, friendship, and joy.
Read the Latest Garden News
- Celebrate Earth Day 🌎 in the Garden This WeekendThis weekend brings two (!) opportunities to spend time in the garden. Join us tomorrow (Sat. 4/20, 10am-noon) for our regular garden stewardship day! It will likely be a pretty low-key group as many gardeners have commitments at other Earth … Continue reading Celebrate Earth Day 🌎 in the Garden This Weekend
- Regular Stewardship Days Are Back!Join us tomorrow (Sat. 4/13) for garden stewardship! Now that spring has truly sprung, we’re resuming our usual cadence of stewardship days: Wednesday evenings 5pm-sunset and Saturday mornings 10am-lunchtime, weather permitting. Come through to chat with neighbors, do a little … Continue reading Regular Stewardship Days Are Back!
- Vote! Then come to the garden for friendship, music, food, and moreTomorrow (April 10) is our first Wednesday garden night of 2024. It is also election day for the Local School Council. Please vote in this important election, and afterwards come join us in the garden. As usual, from 5pm to … Continue reading Vote! Then come to the garden for friendship, music, food, and more
Read more past newsletters here.