A letter from our President

Welcome to the 2023 House & Garden Walk hosted by the Historical Society of Forest Park! We invite you to enjoy yourself as you mingle with new friends and neighbors. Let the captivating history of our village inspire you.

We invite you to our other events throughout the year including our hour-long tour of the Haymarket Martyrs Monument & Radical Row Tour. This tour takes place on the first Saturday of the month, from May through October, at the beautiful Forest Home Cemetery. Additionally, don’t miss our exciting January Volstead Act Speakeasy Party.

By becoming a member of the Historical Society, you actively support the HSFP and its endeavors. As a member, you’ll be invited to our Member Appreciation Party in November, held at the Eagles Hall. Join us for a memorable evening of bingo and karaoke.

For more information about Forest Park’s history, membership, and upcoming events, please visit www.forestparkhistory.org. We greatly appreciate any donations you can offer to support our cause.

Thank you for being a part of today’s walk, and don’t forget to cast your vote for the best of show at tinyurl.com/bestinshow23.

We look forward to seeing you again next year!

Mark Boroughf

Ramos-Sullivan

7724 Monroe St

Built: 1904

Purchased: 2018

In 2018, James Sullivan & Ramona Ramos-Sullivan bought one of the oldest homes on the block. Built in 1904, the original home was only a one bed, one bath house and less than 1,000 SQ FT. Throughout the years, owners added to the home and the current three bed and one and a half bath home stands at approximately 1,300 SQ FT. On the back porch you can still see where the original house ended before the additions. Since James and Ramona bought the home air conditioning was installed and in 2021, the house received a face lift of new siding, doors and outdoor lighting.

James and Ramona still have a small piece of the home’s history, the garage permit when it was added in 1965.

As you stroll in the Ramos-Sullivan garden, the Linden tree is the main center piece of the yard. A garden style that is colorful and full of different textures, Ramona enjoys the flowers and vegetables growing in her yard.

Ramona grew up with many gardeners in her family and at age 13 received her first pack of seeds and planted Cosmos. Currently, Ramona serves as the Co-Chair of the Membership Committee for the Friends of the Oak Park Conservatory. James enjoys mowing the lawn and helping with the maintenance in the yard. He loves all the fresh veggies and herbs that are grown in their raised beds. The deck is their favorite room of their house. When asked, what is your favorite thing about gardening? Answer, “Being outside.”