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The Chicago Park District acquired this playlot in 1974 with the help of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. In 1998, the park was named Essex, after a nearby 19th-century settlement. In 1855, real estate developer Paul Cornell (1822-1904) began buying property south of his substantial holdings in the village of Hyde Park. The area soon became known as Essex - after Essex, England - for the large number of British railroad laborers who lived and worked in the area.

Located in the Grand Crossing/South Shore community, Essex Park is 0.46 acres and it is a pleasant location for families to spend a portion of their day relaxing and enjoying the outdoors and nature. This park contains a playground with swings, slides, and climbing equipment.