The Chicago Park District purchased this long-vacant property in 1948, hoping to give East Side residents relief from the starkness of surrounding steel mills and manufacturing plants. Despite these good intentions, the 17-acre site remained unimproved for at least a decade. Improvements began in 1959. The park district has since installed athletic fields, a running track, a fieldhouse, and, quite recently, a combination ice skating and roller skating rink. The park honors former 10th Ward Alderman William A. Rowan (1882--), who served the area in the 1920s and 1930s. Rowan was also a two-term Representative to the U.S. Congress. While in office, he sponsored much legislation to improve the health, welfare, education, and recreational opportunities of children.


Rowan Park features a walking path - 0.43 miles.