Lakeshore/Lion's park - -Port Arthur TX
N 29° 52.734 W 093° 55.658
15R E 410421 N 3305727
A part of Port Arthur's historic Lakeshore Park was renamed Lion's park in the 1920s to recognize the Port Arthur Lion's Club's many contributions to the improvement of the park.
Waymark Code: WMG5G3
Location: Texas, United States
Date Posted: 01/15/2013
Views: 3
Lakeshore Park was laid out when the original townsite of Port Arthur was being created in the late 19th century. In the 1920s a part of this large park was renamed for the Lion's Club, which had made so many public improvements in the park. A granite boulder with a bronze plaque was installed, with what may be the 1920s-Lions Club logo on it.
The text of the Texas Historic Marker at Lakeshore/Lion's Park:
Lakeshore/Lions Park - The Port Arthur Townsite Company, planning the layout of Port Arthur in 1898, set aside Lakeshore Park along the Sabine Lake shoreline. In 1920 a portion of the park was named Lions Park in honor of the Lions Club members who made numerous improvements there. Through the years, the Lions Club provided playground equipment, water fountains, landscaping, picnic tables, and a two-story southern colonial style bandstand.
The bandstand in the center of the park became a focal point of community social, political and recreational activities. The park was an especially popular gathering place for citizens of all ages during the long, hot summer months.
Texas Senator (and future governor) Allan Shivers, campaigning successfully for reelection in 1938, appeared at political rallies in the park. W. Lee "Pappy" O'Daniel, successful candidate for Governor of Texas that same year, and his band, the Light Crust Doughboys, also appeared in a rally at the park.
City records indicate that the bandstand was razed in 1954. The park was donated to Lamar University, Port Arthur in September 1989 and has become a focal point of Lamar's campus. (1999)" [end]
Street Address (if known):
Nashville at Procter St
Port Arthur, TX
77540
Condition?: excellent
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Visit Instructions:
1) Please provide a photo you have taken of the Friendship Arch, Monument or Plaque.
2) If known, please indicate the operating Lions Club responsible for the placement of the Friendship Arch, Monument or Plaque.
3) Any other information regarding your visit would be greatly appreciated.