​Forest Home Cemetery's monument to the labor movement, was a buzz on the chilly May Day.  Haymarket Martyrs Monument, sculpted by Albert Weinert and paid for by the Pioneer Aid and Support Association nearly 130 years ago, is still the centerpiece of international labor history, 

The Historical Society of Forest Park honored the graves of the men and women associated with labor history including  Albert Parsons, Lucy Parsons, Emma Goldman, Ben Reitman, and residents of Radical Row with information about their lives and contributions.  

The Mark Rogovin Working Class Heroes award was given to Carol Gulyas, who lead the effort in creating highway markers on 290 and on the streets of Forest Park to guide visitors to come to the U.S. National Park Service Historic Landmark.  With gratitude, she recognized the Illinois State employees who helped make the signage possible.

With over 200 total visitors throughout the day, including a crowd of 'Wobblies," from the Industrial Workers of the World, who were roused by Rich Leib's speech and chant, "Leave the work at work!" 

After the crowd took to trivia and a refreshing atmosphere at McGaffer's Saloon.  Several people took advantage of the virtual tour of the monument available on our website. Join us on the first Saturday of the month at 11:00 am for our in-person tour or watch the virtual tour any time on our website.