About
Schiller Park has been a gathering place for generations—a place where recreation, culture, nature, and community come together in the heart of German Village. Friends of Schiller Park helps sustain this treasured public space through stewardship, advocacy, fundraising, programming, and partnerships that preserve its historic character while investing in its future.
Our Story
The History of Schiller Park
Long before it became Schiller Park, this landscape was known as Stewart's Grove, a popular gathering place for festivals, celebrations, political rallies, and community events. Recognizing its importance, the City of Columbus purchased the property in 1867, permanently preserving it as public parkland and creating what is now the city's second-oldest park.
As the surrounding neighborhood grew, so did the park's identity. German immigrants helped shape its character, culminating in the dedication of the Friedrich von Schiller statue in 1891. Fourteen years later, the park officially took the name Schiller Park.
More than a century and a half after its founding, Schiller Park remains what it has always been: a place where people come together.
How Friends of Schiller Park Began
In 1981, four mothers set out to improve the playground and provide much-needed attention to the historic trees It didn't take long to realize they were caring for something much larger: one of Columbus's most significant historic parks. From that simple beginning, Friends of Schiller Park was born.
Their vision quickly attracted other parents and neighborhood residents who shared a commitment to the park's future. Founders Janet Druen, Wendy Mathis, Connie Swain, and Elspeth Willoughby laid the foundation for what would become Columbus's first park friends organization. More than four decades later, three of the four founders continue to serve on the Board of Trustees; a remarkable testament to their enduring dedication and to the lasting power of community stewardship.
Our Board
Jan Clark
Janet Druen
Taimur Chaudhri
Katharine Moore
Our Vision
Shared Backyard
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The homes in surrounding neighborhoods were built on modest city lots, making the park an extension of backyards that many residents never had. For generations, it has been where neighbors walk, children play, runners gather, families picnic, friends meet, and community traditions take root. Though the neighborhood has changed over the years, Schiller Park remains a place that belongs to everyone.
Community Legacy
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Schiller Park didn't become what it is by chance. It reflects generations of people who believed this extraordinary place was worth caring for. What began with four mothers hoping to improve a playground grew into decades of stewardship, generosity, and civic investment. Every tree planted, bench restored, garden tended, and improvement made reflects a community committed to leaving the park better than it found it.
Partnership
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Schiller Park thrives because of partnerships. Friends of Schiller Park works alongside the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department, dedicated volunteers, generous donors, and community organizations that bring the park to life every day.
Among these valued partners are Actors' Theatre of Columbus, whose free summer productions have become a cherished tradition; the Huntington Garden Deadheaders, whose volunteer care keeps the celebrated Huntington Gardens flourishing; and Village Moms, whose ongoing support helps create a welcoming park for families. Together, these partnerships make possible projects, programs, and improvements that preserve the park's historic character while enriching the experience of everyone who visits.
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Arts & Culture without Barriers
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Schiller Park has long been a place where arts and culture belong to everyone. From free Shakespeare under the stars and vintage base ball to neighborhood traditions, the park invites people of every age and background to experience the richness of Columbus's cultural life. No ticket required.
Living Green Stewardship
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Great parks are never finished. Friends of Schiller Park helps care for the park's living landscape by preserving its tree canopy, gardens, fountains, pathways, public art, and historic features. Every season brings new opportunities to restore, improve, and care for this remarkable place.
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