1861Government
Christian Goesel and several relatives settled near 147th and Oak Park Avenue (then Bachelor's Grove Road) beginning in about 1861.
1903History
This post office operated as a satellite of the New Bremen/Tinley Park post office until it was discontinued in 1903.
1910Architecture
The Oak Forest Infirmary opened in 1910.
1911History
From 1911-1971, over 90,000 indigent and unidentified deceased people of Cook County were buried in the potter's field near the Oak Forest Hospital.
1932History
By 1932, the Infirmary was serving more than 4,000 patients, including over 500 with tuberculosis.
1940History
The 1940 census reflected 611 residents outside the hospital.
1947Government
In 1947, with a population of 1,618, the residents voted to incorporate as the Village of Oak Forest.
1971Government
It was reincorporated as a city in 1971.
1987Culture
== Arts and culture ==
From 1987 to 2019 the city hosted Oak Fest.
2005Government
== Recent developments ==
=== Gateway Project ===
In spring 2005, Mayor Patrick M.
2008History
In 2008, the city broke ground on the Gateway Development at the northwest corner of 159th Street and Cicero Avenue.
2012Architecture
By 2012, the Gateway Project still had the same two buildings built in 2008.
2013History
The center is due to be complete in spring 2013.
2016Architecture
In 2016, a two unit building was added.
2020History
== Demographics ==
As of the 2020 census there were 27,478 people, 10,102 households, and 7,219 families residing in the city.