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Florist to Milwaukee park commissioner
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Charles B. Whitnall, Father of Milwaukee County Park System (photo
courtesy Milwaukee County Historical Society)
Charles B. Whitnall was born on January 21, 1859 in a Cream City brick house on the banks of the Milwaukee River just north of Locust Street. He died 90 years later in a larger house just 50 yards from his childhood home, and though he didn't move far geographically, he left a lasting legacy upon Milwaukee.
Born the son of a florist, Whitnall developed an interest in flowers and a deep philosophical belief that the beauty of nature should be available to every city dweller. After he took over his father's business, he became an important figure in the floral industry, helping form the National Association of Florists and the originator of the Florist Telegraph Delivery System (FTD).
As his stature in the community grew, Whitnall was the City Treasurer, as well as being a member of the Milwaukee School Board, held a position with the Citizens Trust Bank, and later founded the Commonwealth Mutual Savings Bank.
It was his interest in nature that led to his greatest influence upon Milwaukee. He became a charter member of the newly formed Milwaukee County Park Commission and remained a member for 40 years until he retired in 1947.
His vision was instrumental in acquiring large tracts of land so that the citizens of Milwaukee could stay in close contact to nature, the rivers, lakes, and trees. In 1929-30, the Park Commission purchased land that had been farmed since the early years of the city and in fact, was still being farmed by the Merrity family at the time.
Originally named Hales Corners Park, the Park Commission renamed it in 1932 in Whitnall's honor. A few years later, the federal government gave Milwaukee County additional land bordering the Root River. The Root River Parkway borders Whitnall Park and together they form an urban park totaling 3244 acres.
Known as the Father of the Milwaukee County Park System, much of what we see today in the miles of county parkways and lake front beaches are a direct result of his vision.
Today aside from the park that bears his name, there is also a high school in Greenfield, Wisconsin and an avenue named in his honor.
In addition, Gordon Park near Locust Street is named after his wife's family, who were Whitnall's neighbors growing up and owned the property before selling it to the city. The County Park Commission acquired it, along with the rest of the city's parks during the Depression when the city could no longer afford them.
Whitnall died on January 5, 1949 and his ashes were scattered in the woods of Whitnall Park.
