For the Love of Memories

There are currently 170 inscribed benches scattered throughout Forest Park. Chances are that you’ve probably sat on one to have lunch, tie your shoe, watch ducks play in Deer Lake or enjoy the fountains at Emerson Grand Basin.

The benches aren’t always something visitors pay attention to. They’re just a part of Forest Park and unless you’re actively looking for a place to rest your feet or read a book, you might not even notice them.  

You’re probably familiar with the many benches that line the Grand Basin or the ones that provide a scenic view of red-hued trees around Pagoda Circle in the fall. But did you know that there is a lone bench near the Franz Sigel Statue near Union and Grand Drive, or that there are three benches placed around Deer Lake that offer a very private — and beautiful — place to enjoy the Park? 

The benches are more than just a place to rest your feet — they connect us to the past.  

There are 171 benches adorned with inscriptions written as part of Forest Park’s Tribute Bench program. Dedications to loved ones, reflections on memories made in the Park. There’s even one that commemorates the marriage of a couple that met at the 1904 World’s Fair.

One of the benches that looks out into the Emerson Grand Basin beautifully mentions a timeless love: “Adolph and Annie Schermer, They met at the 1904 World’s Fair and lived happily ever after.”

Some commemorate anniversaries and birthdays: 

Many remember loved ones:

Some show appreciation for memories made in Forest Park: 

So next time, you find yourself enjoying lunch on one of the many benches in Forest Park, take a moment to read the inscription. It’ll connect you to the many people who have enjoyed the Park in past.

To find out more about the tribute program, visit https://www.forestparkforever.org/tributes.