Delano Park

Located at 825 Gordon Dr SE, Decatur, AL 35601, United States, Delano Park is a historic and vibrant attraction that has been a cornerstone of the community since its inception in 1887. As Morgan County’s oldest city park in continuous operation, it stands as a testament to the vision of its founders, who sought to create a world-class planned community. The park’s design was entrusted to Nathan Franklin Barrett, a renowned landscape architect known for his work on Pullman, Illinois, the first industrial planned town in the nation. Barrett’s signature style, which blends formal and naturalistic elements, is evident throughout the park’s layout, making it a unique and captivating destination for visitors.

Delano Park was part of a broader initiative by the Decatur Land Improvement and Furnace Company to revitalize the city after it suffered from the devastating effects of the Civil War and a yellow fever epidemic. The park’s creation was a pivotal element in this master plan, aiming to provide recreation and respite for the people of Decatur in a rapidly industrializing world. Over the years, Delano Park has evolved to include various amenities and attractions, making it a beloved spot for both locals and tourists.

One of the park’s most notable features is its recognition as a designed historic landscape, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This distinction underscores the park’s cultural and historical significance, reflecting its enduring appeal as a tourist attraction. Visitors can explore the park’s beautiful landscapes, which include a children’s playground, a splash pad, and historic stone structures. The park also hosts a variety of events and activities, contributing to its status as a vibrant community hub.

In recent years, efforts have been made to restore and enhance the park’s facilities. The formation of Friends of Delano Park in 2000 marked a significant turning point in this process, leading to the restoration of historic stone structures and improvements in accessibility and beautification. The Delano Park Conservancy, in partnership with the City of Decatur, continues to work towards preserving the park’s heritage for future generations.

Delano Park’s history is also intertwined with notable figures and events. The park was named after President Franklin Delano Roosevelt’s mother, Sara Ann Delano Roosevelt, following a newspaper contest in the 1930s. This naming was part of a broader initiative to commemorate Roosevelt’s vision for municipal parks across America. The park’s development was further supported by programs like the Civilian Works Administration (CWA) and the Works Progress Administration (WPA), which played a crucial role in constructing many of its iconic features, including a rose garden, bathhouse, and wading pool.

Carolyn Cortner Smith, Alabama’s first licensed female architect, played a pivotal role in the construction of many of the park’s stone structures. Her leadership in building the park’s rose garden, bathhouse, and other facilities not only contributed to the park’s aesthetic appeal but also highlighted her groundbreaking achievements in a male-dominated field.

Today, Delano Park remains a central attraction in Decatur, offering a blend of historical charm and modern amenities. Visitors can enjoy a variety of recreational activities, from exploring the park’s scenic paths to participating in community events. The park’s phone number, +1 256-341-4930, provides a convenient point of contact for those seeking more information about its facilities and upcoming events.

In addition to its recreational value, Delano Park has also been a site for significant community events. For instance, it has hosted the Spirit of America celebration, an event founded by local journalists in response to protests over the Vietnam War in the late 1960s. This tradition continues to this day, reflecting the park’s role as a unifying force within the community.

As a tourist attraction, Delano Park offers a unique blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and community spirit. Its location in the heart of historic Decatur makes it an ideal destination for those interested in exploring the city’s rich heritage. Whether you are a local looking for a peaceful retreat or a visitor seeking to experience the best of Decatur, Delano Park is a must-visit destination that promises to captivate and inspire.