WASHINGTON PARK HISTORICAL SITES AND MONUMENTS

When you enter Washington Park, you will be crossing over Trail Creek, called Riviere du Chemin (Trail of the River) by early French and Indians, on the George Washington Bicentennial Bridge, built in 1932.

Civil War “Victorious Peace” Monument

At the entrance to Washington Park stands the Civil War Monument “Victorious Peace”, dedicated May 31, 1893. The inscription on the north side reads “In memory of the Soldiers of the Civil War who gave their services to perpetuate the union of the States.” The inscription on the south side reads “This monument is the gift of John H. Winterbotham to Michigan City.” John H. Winterbotham was a local manufacturer, bank director and senator in the late 19th century. The sculpture was designed by M. Muldoon of Louisville, KY and sculpted by William O’Donovan and Jonathan Hartley, both New Yorkers. The monument is made of the finest quality Vermont grey granite weighing 76 tons and standing 65’ from the ground to the top of the olive branch. Above the tablets is a cylindrical bronze belt cast in figures representing scenes of the war including shields of the United States and Indiana. Above the belt in Latin reads “It is sweet and glorious to die for one’s country.”

Washington Park Bandstand

Turn right on Lake Shore Drive and on your left you will see the Washington Park Bandstand, designed by H.M. Miles and dedicated on July 6, 1911. The Haskell & Barker Band, renamed the Michigan City Municipal Band, held weekly summer band concerts here from 1911-1978. The Washington Park Bandstand underwent a complete preservation project in 2024. It continues to be used for concerts and other special occasions.

WWI “Doughboy” Monument

Turn left on the park entrance road, and on your left you will see the WWI “Doughboy” monument. The Service Star Legion (War Mothers) spearheaded a fund drive to erect this monument so that the memory of deceased soldiers be kept fresh, and the deepest tribute of love and respect be paid to them at all times. The monument was unveiled on Armistice Day, November 11, 1926. It is made of Northern Pearl granite with a base of Bedford marble. The bronze “Doughboy” is in full battle uniform and the bronze American Eagle with two crossed cannons is below. The inscription reads: “Lest we forget ‘Our Boys’ who answered their country’s call in the World War 1917-1918.”

Michigan City East Pierhead Lighthouse
Continue straight to the lakefront and on your left you will see Michigan City’s Lighthouse, known as the East Pierhead Light and Fog Signal Tower, with attached elevated walkway (catwalk) which was built in 1904 and placed on the National Register of Historic Places by the United States Department of the Interior on February 19, 1984. 

United States Coast Guard Station
Follow the road past the boat basin, turning right on Browne Basin Road to see Monument Plaza and the U.S. Coast Guard Station. 

A U.S. Life-Saving Station was built on this site in 1889 to monitor shipping and help in times of need with a small crew of only seven men. In 1915 it was adopted into the newly formed U.S. Coast Guard. The station was completely rebuilt in 1988 and now has a crew of men and women who cover a 300 square nautical mile area on Lake Michigan. 

Memorial Plaza

Immediately in front of the U.S. Coast Guard Station is Memorial Plaza, dedicated to all Veterans by a grateful community. It was dedicated on Veterans’ Day, November 11, 1994.

PFC Daniel D. Bruce Monument
At the center of Memorial Plaza stands a monument honoring Vietnam War Medal of Honor recipient PFC. Daniel D. Bruce, erected in the 1980’s.  The front of the large center monument stone reads “PFC DANIEL D. BRUCE, May 18, 1950—March 1, 1969 and displays his Marine Corps Medal of Honor. The back reads “THESE OUR BOYS WHO GAVE THEIR LIVES IN THE SERVICE OF OUR COUNTRY DURING THE VIETNAM CONFLICT FROM AUG. 5, 1964 TO AUG. 15, 1973.” Under the inscription reads the names of those who lost their lives in Vietnam.

Around the circle are 8 monuments honoring all branches of service. The first is the citation dedicated to PFC. Daniel D. Bruce. The other monuments read “Dedicated to all men and women who have served their country as active or reserve members of the United States Marine Corp., United States Army, United States Air Force, United States Merchant Marine, United States Coast Guard, and United States Navy. One monument dedicated to the POW-MIA reads “Dedicated to the men and women of all branches of U.S. Military service who have suffered enemy imprisonment . . . and to those whose fate is still unknown.”

1858 Lighthouse Museum

Just south of Monument Plaza is the Old Lighthouse Museum. The museum boasts many displays, both on the grounds and inside, depicting many aspects of a working lighthouse, local history and the area’s rich nautical history, including the launching of the Great Lakes’ first submarine. This lighthouse was built in 1858, replacing the 1837 lighthouse built at the water’s edge. Seven keepers served here from 1837-1970. In November of 1974 the Old Lighthouse was placed on the National Register of Historic Places because of its historically significant architecture and association with lake transportation.

Spanish War Veterans Memorial
Located on the grounds of the Old Lighthouse Museum, this memorial was erected in 1936 by Sheldon Morris Durbin Auxiliary of the United Spanish War Veterans. The tablet displays an image of a Spanish-American War soldier ready for battle in front of the battleship Maine. The inscription reads “You triumphed over obstacles which would have overcome men less brave and determined. President McKinley.”

Grand Army of The Republic Memorial
Located on the grounds of the Old Lighthouse Museum, this plaque on the small stone reads “In memory of The Grand Army of the Republic by Lucretial Williams Tent 38 Daughters of Union Veterans of the Civil War 1861-1865.” Inscribed at the top of the plaque is “D of U V,” or Daughters of Union Veterans.

S.S. Eastland Disaster Memorial
The Eastland Memorial, located on the grounds of the Old Lighthouse Museum, was dedicated on July 24, 2015 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Eastland Disaster.  The Hawthorne Club, made up of employees of the Western Electric Company's Hawthorne Works in Cicero Illinois, chartered several excursion ships to carry approximately 7,000 employees and family members to Michigan City's Washington Park to enjoy the annual picnic. The SS Eastland was to be the first of the ships to depart Chicago for Michigan City. Tragically, the Eastland rolled over onto its port side in about 20 feet of water while still partially tied to the wharf in the Chicago River. Eight hundred forty four of the 2,501 passengers on board perished. The victims included mostly young women and children. Twenty two entire families were lost on that fateful day. To this day, the Eastland disaster represents the single greatest loss of life in Great Lakes maritime history.

The 265’ long monument is made of (844) 6” chain links representing each life lost in the tragedy. There are bronze plaques on the north and south ends of the monument with information related to the Eastland Disaster.

 Schoenemann Memorial Fountain
Located west of the Washington Park Bandstand is a short, solitary, glossy black marble column that used to serve as a drinking fountain. The plaque reads “In memory of William H. Schoenemann, one of the first Trustees of Washington Park.” It is well situated in the midst of the Old Bandstand and Rock Garden.

1950-2000 50 Years of Progress Exposition
The stones were placed during the 50 Years of Progress Exposition in Washington Park which was held on September 8-10, 1950. The 1950 stone has hand prints from the winner of the “Miss Progress” contest, Nancy Carol Kanold, and the signature of Indiana’s Governor Henry F. Schriker. Over 16,000 people attended the exposition.

Rotary Centennial Monument and Time Capsule

The Michigan City Rotary Club erected a Rotary Centennial Monument marking the location of a time capsule in Washington Park on April 1, 1957 in between the Oasis Splash Park and Lake Shore Drive. The capsule is to be opened in 2057. The monument was restored in 2017 by our Michigan City Rotary Club.

 Dickinson Memorial
The W. J. Dickinson Memorial is a quaint flower garden with a smooth concrete wall behind a concrete bench in art deco style with rubble concrete walkways. The memorial is dedicated to a man who was instrumental in the construction of the zoo and parts of Washington Park. Mr. Dickinson served on the Park Board and the Zoo Board during the years 1928 to 1937, including the Depression Years, and saw the Federal Works Progress Administration (WPA) work done that forms much of the zoo and park that we still see today. The bronze plaque centered on the wall reads “W.J. DICKINSON MEMO-RIAL, PARK BOARD, ZOO BOARD 1928-1937.” The garden is located on the north side of Lake Shore Drive, east of Oasis Splash Park and the tennis shelter.

Washington Park Zoo

Zoo News: Education and Hope for Our Future

When people think of the zoo, they often focus on the animals and the experiences they enjoy during their visits. But if the zoo solely relied on its collection of animals to justify its existence, what meaningful substance would we offer the community to rally around?

The welfare of the animals is just one pillar of the zoo’s foundation. The second pillar is conservation, which creates a direct connection to the animals and allows us to discuss the challenges they face in the wild. It also provides opportunities for the community to participate in protecting their wild counterparts and their habitats. Finally, the third pillar is education. After all, what good is information if it isn't shared? While the zoo takes pride in the strength of all three pillars, the education aspect is often overlooked. Its importance lies in the lessons provided today that may inspire future generations.

The Washington Park Zoo may be considered small based on its size, number of animals, and annual budget. However, from my experience, great things often come in small packages. With a dedicated full-time staff of nine, including five animal keepers, an assistant director, a maintenance foreperson, a retail manager, and a zoo director, the zoo focuses on maintaining these three main pillars to meet the needs of both the zoo and the community.

Although we do not have a full-time education staff member, we strive to offer a variety of programming. Our most popular classes and presentations take place on zoo grounds and include camps, birthday parties, keeper talks, and special events. Regardless of the venue, our presentations cover a range of topics and feature various animals. Some programs are labeled as Zoo-to-You, while others are simply referred to as Outreach. Our zoo programming is designed for diverse audiences, spanning from toddlers to seniors.

Stroller Adventure Cub Club

Children aged 2 to 5 and their favorite grown-ups are invited to embark on Zoo adventures designed specifically for them. From April through September, participants can enjoy a new morning journey filled with learning and fun alongside other Stroller Adventure Cubs.

Safari Zoo Camp

When school is out, Zoo Camp is in! Immerse your child in the wonders of the natural world through our engaging and educational programs that foster a love for wildlife and conservation. Our camps provide a unique opportunity for young explorers to connect with nature, discover fascinating animal habitats, and participate in hands-on activities that spark curiosity and creativity. With experienced educators guiding the way, your child will embark on a journey of discovery, making friends and memories that will last a lifetime.

Adult Zoo Camp

Why should kids have all the fun? Immerse yourself in elevated zoo experiences designed to inspire your inner child. Join our education staff for an afternoon of hands-on projects, themed tours, insider animal stories, engaging activities, and more. Discover how the Washington Park Zoo provides exceptional care for your favorite animals.

*Note: This class involves walking on the zoo grounds and is for adults (18+) only!

Family Zoo Camp

Zoo Camp: Family Edition is open to families of all shapes and sizes (you don't even have to be related!). From the youngest to the young at heart, everyone can enjoy the excitement of attending morning camp at the zoo. This program is perfect for kids aged 5 and up along with their grown-ups, featuring zoo tours, animal meet-and-greets, fun games, and more. Plus, there will be plenty of opportunities for photos to create lifetime keepsakes of this shared experience. For more information about these and other zoo news, visit www.washingtonparkzoo.com.

Recreation

The OttoApp

We have made an official switch from Jarvis to The OttoApp. We love that OttoApp is a mobile native platform that gives you the user a very simple and streamlined way to view and sign up for Park and Rec activities. Right now, the app will host our leagues, events, and classes; but in the future we plan to provide facility rentals, merchandise sales, concession sales, and much more through the application.

Click here to Download the Apple App
Click here to Download the Android App
Click here to go to the Web Browser Version

2025 Bucket Golf Tour

MC P&R Pour and Paint

We will be having monthly Adult Crafts/Game Nights. There will be a Pour and Paint on March the 8th. The cost will be $25 and will be held at Krueger Memorial Hall. CLICK HERE to head to the FB event page.

Moving forward, we plan on having these Pour and Paints on the 2nd Thursday of the month at 5:30. They may move around to different locations throughout the year, but we are going to try to stay consistent on the 2nd Thursdays.

Spring Adult Coed Softball

Summer Youth Baseball League

Sign ups for the 2025 Summer Michigan City Youth Baseball League are open. Another summer with league Director Cary Krachinski running the show. We love the direction our league is trending in. We have some equipment upgrades this season, with 14 brand new sets of catcher’s gear, 50 new helmets with chin guards, and a new maintenance plan to make sure it all stays fresh and up to date for our young athletes.

Late / Last Chance Sign up Fee

April 1st through April 6th will be the Late / Last Chance Sign Up opportunity. An addition $10 charge (per child) will be added for late sign up fee. So make sure to sign your kids up as soon as possible.

Trail Hikes

Chess Club

We are excited that a community chess club is back in Michigan City. We will be meeting on 1st and 3rd Mondays at Krueger Memorial Hall from 5:30-7:30. This club is open for all skill levels. We have people that that can train kids and adults on how to play the game. Right now there is no cost to be in the Club. All persons under the age of 15 must be accompanied by an adult.

Lorcan the Ludic Leprechaun

MC Park and Recreation

WE ARE HIRING

While we do still have positions still available we have done a lot of hiring in the month of March, and most of our positions are now filled. These positions are still available. Click the link below and apply today!!!

Zoo:
Gardner
Seasonal Zookeeper
Park Maintenance:
Custodian
General Laborer
Landscaping Laborer
Patriot Park Laborer
Golf Maintenance:
Laborer

CLICK HERE to apply now

EVP Tour Volleyball

BEACH CAMPS

Campers will learn the rules for several volleyball formats while fine-tuning their skills, and pick up valuable strategy tips during daily matches. Coaches will concentrate on the fundamentals of setting, passing, spiking, and learn to overhand serve.

Age: 9-10 yrs Fee: $99

June 9-12 M-Th 8:30-10:30am Washington Park

June 16-19 M-Th 2-4pm Washington Park

July 7-10 M-Th 2-4pm Washington Park

July 14-17 M-Th 8:30-10:30am Washington Park

July 28-31 M-Th 8:30-10:30am Washington Park

Aug 4-7 M-Th 2-4pm Washington Park

Age: 11-14 yrs  Fee: $99

June 16-19 M-Th 8:30-10:30am Washington Park

June 23-26 M-Th 2-4pm Washington Park

July 14-17 M-Th 2-4pm Washington Park

July 21-24 M-Th 8:30-10:30am Washington Park

July 28-31 M-Th 2-4pm Washington Park

Aug 4-7 M-Th 8:30-10:30am Washington Park

JR. PRO-CAMPS

Our EVP coaches will train your experienced athlete in the 2-person and 4-person formats of beach volleyball. Daily training in passing, setting, serving and spiking will be followed by games. Free t-shirt for each camper!

Age: 11-16 yrs Fee: $99

June 23-26 M-Th 11am-1pm Washington Park

July 7-10 M-Th 11am-1pm Washington Park

July 21-24 M-Th 11am-1pm Washington Park

BEACH TRAINING CAMPS

Our EVP coaches will train your experienced athlete in the 2-person and 4-person formats of beach volleyball. Daily training in passing, setting, serving and spiking will be followed by games. Free t-shirt for each camper!

ADV - HS & College Athletes 13-18 yrs Fee: $99

June 4, 9, 11, 16, 18, 23, 25, 30 M/W 7:30-9am Washington Park

July 7, 9, 14, 16,21, 23 , 28, 30 M/W 7:30-9am Washington Park

Grade School Athletes 10-14yrs Fee: $99

June 4, 9, 11, 16, 18, 23, 25, 30 M/W 9-10:30am Washington Park

July 7, 9, 14, 16, 21, 23, 28, 30 M/W 9-10:30am Washington Park

EVP TOURNAMENTS

This co-ed camp, which guarantees five matches, is for experienced players. Teams who finish 1st and 2nd receive a bid to compete in the EVP Jr. Championships on Aug. 10. Pool play includes 6 games plus every team makes the play-offs guaranteed!

Age: 11-16 yrs     Fee: $30

Time: 8am - 12pm      Location: Washington Park

Championships: 8am - 3pm

May 24 S

May 26 M

May 31 Sa

June 7 Sa

June 14 Sa

June 21 Sa

June 22 Su

June 28 Sa

June 29 Su

July 4 F

July 5 Sa

July 6 Su

July 12 Sa

July 13 Su

July 19 Sa

July 20 Su

July 26 Sa

July 27 Su

EVP® INDOOR VOLLEYBALL CAMPS

Indoor at Scholl Center at Marquette Catholic HS Fee: $99

Skills Camp 6/30-7/3 8-10 M/W 8-10am

Skills Camp 6/30-7/3 11-14 M/W 10am - 12pm

Spiking/Serve 6/30-7/3 11-14 M/W 10am - 12pm

Register at www.evpacademies.com 

Check the Calendar

April

• Tuesday, April 1st - Paper Football League - Open Play
  6-8p @ Krueger Memorial Hall Free

• Tuesday, April 8th - Paper Football League - Open Play
  6-8p @ Krueger Memorial Hall Free

• Monday, April 7th - Chess Club
  5:30-7:30p @ Krueger Memorial Hall

• Thursday, April 10th - Pour and Paint $25
  5:30p-7:30p @ Krueger Memorial Hall

• Friday, April 18th - Trail Hike - Free
  5:30p @ Ruby Woods (Between Al’s on Franklin and Horizon Bank)

• Saturday, April 19th - Easter Egg Hunt @ Fedder’s Alley

• Saturday, April 19th - Paper Football League - Tournament
  3-9p @ Krueger Memorial Hall

• Monday, April 21st - Chess Club
  5:30-7:30p @ Krueger Memorial Hall

• Saturday, April 26th - Bucket Golf Tour

• 1-4p @ Gardena Park $5 a round (9 holes)

May

• Friday, May 2nd - Bike the City - Free
  5:30 PM @ Central School

• Monday, May 5th - Chess Club - Free
  5:30-7:30p @ Krueger Memorial Hall

• Tuesday, May 6th - Paper Football League
  6-8 pm @ Krueger Memorial Hall

• Thursday, May 8th - Pour and Paint - $25
  5:30 - 7:30p @ Krueger Memorial Hall

• Saturday, May 10th - Bucket Golf Tour - $5
  1p - 4p @ Krueger Memorial

• Tuesday, May 13th - Paper Football League
  6-8 pm @ Krueger Memorial Hall

• Thursday, May 15th - Bike the City - Free
  5:30 PM @ TBD

• Saturday, May 17th - 1980s Themed Murder Mystery Dinner
  6:00 PM @ Krueger Memorial Hall

• Monday, May 19th - Chess Club - Free
  5:30 - 7:30p @ Krueger Memorial Hall

• Tuesday, May 20th - Paper Football League
  6-8 pm @ Krueger Memorial Hall

• Tuesday, May 27th - Paper Football League
  6-8 pm @ Krueger Memorial Hall

• Saturday, May 31st - Water Tower Park Ribbon Cutting - Free
  11:30 @ Water Tower Park

Until Next Time

We appreciate you taking the time to read this April newsletter. The big thing for the beginning of this year is to get signed up for ‘The Ottoapp”. All events, leagues, activities, and anything else going on will be on The Ottoapp. Also make sure you follow us on our Facebook Page.
In the meantime, if you have any questions, please reach out to us at [email protected] or call us at 219-873-1506.