Garden of Peace, Hope and Remembrance

After the United States was attacked by terrorists on September 11, 2001, Stevenson student leaders wanted to show their support for the victims. Several projects were undertaken, and all but one of them were quickly completed. In the fall of 2006, the final and grandest project, the Garden of Peace, Hope and Remembrance, began. 

The garden, consisting of trees and prairie, is meant to be a place for reflection. Surrounded by symbols of hope, peace and beauty, those who visit the garden are invited to relax and reflect on life, loved ones, and their future. When it was first proposed in 2001, the garden was viewed as a place where students and others could go to renew their confidence in tomorrow, no matter how difficult current circumstances. 

At the heart of the garden is "Quest for Peace," a 15-foot tall sculpture by renowned Chicago sculptor Richard Hunt. The sculpture is a symbolic expression of the life and legacy of Adlai E. Stevenson II, the school’s namesake.  The intertwining ladders reach skyward with undaunted aspiration, representing his two presidential candidacies. The open-faced book, reflecting his career as an attorney and author, transforms into the wings of a dove, symbolic of peace.

On the pages of the garden catalog listed below, you will learn more about the gardens and the items that can be chosen as a tribute or memorial in each garden.  These gifts are wonderful contributions and provide an enduring remembrance. If you are interested in donating an item, please see the order form for current donation levels. In addition, monetary contributions may be made to support the ongoing development and maintenance of the gardens. 

Garden of Peace
        "Peace Stones"            $350.00
This garden celebrates the life of Adlai E. Stevenson II. Peace Stones are placed in the gravel path surrounding the sculpture "Quest for Peace." The word "Peace" can be carved in any language and symbolize Adlai E. Stevenson II’s worldly influence. The donor name also appears in the stone.

Garden of Hope
        Teak Benches with donor plaques    $ 1,300.00
        Stone curbs with brass plaques         $    800.00
        honoring "Architects of hopes and
        dreams" or providing inspirational
        quotes.
This garden celebrates dreams, possibilities, aspirations, ambitions and imagination. Our native prairie was chosen to represent this garden. Prairies represent wide lands under wider skies, symbols of seemingly limitless opportunity and enduring hope. The prairie sets a mood that all things are possible.

Garden of Remembrance
        Trees and plaques                                $ 500.00-800.00
        Teak Benches with donor plaques    $ 1,300.00
        Sculpture/Art                                        $ TBD
This garden celebrates events, achievements, and the lives of others through art and nature. Trees are the structure of this garden. Their silhouettes and form have long inspired artists across many mediums. It is said that a tree is in its greatest celebration of life when seen in its fall color. Let this color symbolize the greatest part of one’s life or event that is remembered here.

Please contact Lori Lyman for further information at lymangroup@comcast.net or 847-229-8927.

Click here for the Garden Catalog

Click here for the Garden Order Form


The Stevenson High School Foundation gratefully acknowledges the support of the following businesses and civic organizations: