A registered historic landmark that is better known by its nickname Bughouse Square (derived from the slang of bughouse referring to mental health facilities), it was the most celebrated open air free-speech center in the country as well as a popular Chicago tourist attraction.

On September 4, 1842,[4] the city received a 3-acre (12,000 m2) parcel that was donated by the members of the American Land Company for use as a public park.

Between 1869 and the 1890s, the city improved Washington Square with lawn, trees, bisecting diagonal walks, limestone coping, picket fencing, and an attractive Victorian fountain.

By the time Alderman McCormick became President of Drainage Board in 1906, the fountain had been razed and the park had deteriorated.

Like Speakers' Corner in London's Hyde Park, Washington Square became a popular spot for soap box orators.

Artists, writers, political radicals, and hobos pontificated, lectured, recited poetry, ranted, and raved.

The May 11, 2005 extension added the Isaac Maynard Row Houses located at 119-123 West Delaware Place.

[4] Although Alderman McCormick's fountain was removed in the 1970s, in the late 1990s, the park district, the city, and neighborhood organizations agreed on a restoration plan for Washington Square.