Building Fort Frankfort

 In 1998, a 60-acre parcel of land was nothing more than a gravel road and fields of dandelions. The Frankfort Park District was looking for a big idea to improve the site, but its capital budget was exhausted from its purchase.

By October 1999, the construction of Fort Frankfort was completed. The story of how funds were raised, volunteers recruited, and the actual construction is a great example of how a community can come together and make an idea a reality. 

In 2025, the Frankfort Park District received a DCEO grant from the State of Illinois to fund the replacement of the "Fort".  Although many are sad to see the wood playground go, the new park is a nice homage to the "Fort".  Check it out. 

 In June 2000, it was announced that Fort Frankfort had won the Governor's Home Town award. The land donation, fundraising, and construction by volunteers was recognized as a significant and successful community effort.  

Each year, Operation Playground coordinates a group of volunteers from Lincoln-Way High School and holds a "Maintenance Day" for the Fort. Students sand, stain, paint, and perform other maintenance tasks to the Fort to ensure it looks its best for the new playtime season. Students who volunteer earn service hours for helping with this project. If you or your organization are interested in help with Maintenance Day, please contact us. Students must be 16 or older to participate.