Silver Springs Park - Springfield, Missouri
N 37° 13.350 W 093° 16.540
15S E 475543 N 4119591
Although much of the park's historic WPA architecture has been destroyed, the organization's work can still be seen in the park gates and along Jordan Creek.
(The listed coordinates are for the park gates.)
Waymark Code: WMJ4WH
Location: Missouri, United States
Date Posted: 09/24/2013
Views: 2
The 18-acres on which the park sits was originally known as the Fairbanks Pasture. In 1833, the first church in Greene County, Missouri, a Methodist Baptist Church, was built in the pasture. Although there are no signs of the church in the park, there is a historical marker telling the church's story near the park gates. An old Springfield News-Leader article indicates that the building was also used for Presbyterian services.
In 1918, the pasture became a city park named for a spring on the grounds which empties into Jordan Creek, which then crosses the grounds. Thereafter, the park became a historical focal point for Springfield's African-American community. It was the first and, for a long time, the only park serving that community in Springfield.
Silver Springs received a massive upgrade during the Great Depression from the WPA. Pictures in the archives of the public library and the historical society indicate a number of WPA buildings had once graced the park. Some were apparently affiliated with the baseball diamonds. The park's WPA jewel was the old swimming pool which has now been replaced by a much newer facility. Today, all that is left of the WPA projects are the park gates along N. National Ave. and the stone work lining Jordan Creek.
(Part of the information recited here is based on Mrs. Team Blakelylaw's personal knowledge, having grown up in Springfield; part is based on the Springfield Reunion Club's Park Day Reunion site and the National Historic Register link referred to below.
Project type: Other
Date built or created: app. 1936
Location: Silver Springs Park
City: Springfield
Condition: Good upkeep with a little wear and tear
Website for additional information: [Web Link]
|
Visit Instructions:
To help give a different perspective and to better the waymark for future visitors please tell us about your visit and upload a favorite photograph you took of the waymark.
Although visiting this waymark in person is the only thing required of you to receive credit for your visit, taking the time to add this information is greatly appreciated.