About Us

The Savanna Park District began on July 1, 1929, when five visionary commissioners held their first meeting at The National Bank—without property, facilities, or even a tax levy. That group, led by Frank Jenks (President), Alfred Boothby (Secretary), and commissioners Laurence Miles, Harfin Dinsen, and Oluf Hansen, laid the foundation for what would become a vital part of the Savanna community. Just a month later, the board adopted its first levy of $16,050. On April 1, 1930, the City of Savanna officially transferred park property through Ordinance #396, granting Marquette Park, 29 acres at Old Mill Park, and the Pioneer Monument to the district. Since then, the Park District has grown to include five parks, an indoor swimming pool, and the Savanna Marina—continuing a legacy of recreation and community connection for nearly a century.