Shore Acres Park in Chillicothe, IL, is a popular gathering place that has been used by residents since the early 1890s. The park’s clubhouse was named to the National Registry of Historic Places in 1995, making it the only building in Chillicothe with this honor.

In 2018, the Chillicothe Park District announced the Shore Acres Park Master Plan. This plan will protect the integrity of the park for future generations.

History

The most popular park among Chillicotheans has been used by residents since the early 1890s.  During James Kinloch’s term as mayor, the “Old Woods” property came up for sale.  The mayor was farsighted enough to realize that it would make an ideal city park.  Called Columbia Park, the property became a popular gathering place almost overnight.  Picnics, family reunions, and neighborhood ball games all found their way to the new park.  Sunday crowds were so large that a dance pavilion was built and band concerts filled the air with music each Sunday afternoon.  Columbia Park became so popular that steamboats had to stop there to let off picnickers from Lacon, Henry, Pekin, and Peoria.

About 1913, the name of the park was changed to the Peoria Auto Club.  A clubhouse was built, and it became a special place for those wealthy enough to own a car.  By the early 1920s, the newness of the car was wearing off, and the name of the park was changed again, this time to North Shore Country Club.  A nine-hole golf course added to its popularity and prestige.

In the late 1930s, Frank Myer bought the property and changed the name to Shore Acres Park.  1948 found the land in the hands of the Chillicothe Park District.

Today, Shore Acres is still the most popular gathering place for area residents.  The old clubhouse has been rejuvenated by local organizations and the park board.  The new aquatic center is in constant use during the summer, and the lighted softball field attracts teams from throughout the area.  Tennis/Pickleball & basketball courts are located south of the swimming pool. Two beautiful pavilions can be found at the north and south ends of the park, and a disc golf course and Riggins River Walk provide scenic views of the Illinois River.

The clubhouse and grounds are being watched over by the park board to ensure area residents will always have this beautiful park.