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The City created Union Park in 1853, after residents convinced developers to sell 13 acres of their subdivision at a reduced price. Named in honor of the Federal Union, it was one of the City's most fashionable places.

In 1885, the City transferred control and management of Union Park to the West Park Commission, which made the park its headquarters. Three years later, Jens Jensen, then working as gardener, planted an experimental wildflower garden called the American Garden, marking the beginnings of his venerable naturalistic style.

In the 1910s, African-Americans began moving into the neighborhood. While many other parks were inaccessible to black residents, Union Park became racially integrated.

Between the 1920s and the 1950s, the park became well-known for cultural and social events, and a number of notable musicians performed there. Among them were the noted pioneer of gospel music Thomas A. Dorsey; trumpeter Sunny Cohn; and jazz pianist Ramsey Lewis.

In 1934, the park became part of the ¿ì²¥ÊÓƵ’s portfolio when the West Park Commission and 21 other park districts were consolidated.  In 1957, the City transferred ownership of Union Park to the ¿ì²¥ÊÓƵ pursuant to the Chicago Park and City Exchange of Functions Act.