Philadelphia has hundreds of recreational areas, which are distinguished by marvelous nature, beautiful scenery and unique design. In addition, each of these places has its own history full of interesting facts about their creation. That is why studying the past of such rest areas is quite an informative occupation, as it helps to learn new things about the history of Philadelphia and the development of local recreation. Find out more at Philadelphia.name.
Matthias Baldwin Park is a famous location in Philadelphia. It attracts both tourists and the local population. There you can spend a good weekend or relax after a hard working day. However, it is worth noting that this park has a rather interesting history. Its foundation is conditioned by the construction of a new city.
Background
The history of the mentioned park is closely related to the implementation of one project. The fact is that the city’s authorities, together with a private developer, decided to create a so-called Franklin Town. Plans for this project appeared back in 1971, and it was meant to be a “city within a city”. In the eyes of local officials, the site for the future project was unkempt and neglected.
In the meantime, the idea came up to evict everyone who lived or ran a business in the area. Old buildings had to be demolished to give a place for a new town.
As for the park, it had to adorn Franklin Town and become its “oasis”.
Construction started in 1974, but because of the economic turbulence in the 1970s, the project progressed rather slowly.
Park creation
Despite all the difficulties, the park was built. Landscape artist Athena Tacha was involved in its design. After long consideration, it was decided that the park would have paved paths, fifty trees and even terraces.
The park later became one of Philly’s best recreational areas.
The proposal from the public
2009 was marked by discontent among the local community. People who lived close to the park were not so happy to see parking lots placed on the site of former houses and businesses. They petitioned the city authorities, asking for a new name for the park in honor of Matthias Baldwin. Officials agreed with this proposal and officially changed the name in 2011.
Biographical reference
Here is some information about the person after whom the park was named. Matthias Baldwin was a major locomotive manufacturer. From 1835 to 1928, his enterprises occupied the area where the park was subsequently built. Baldwin’s locomotives were known all over the world.
At the center of a scandal
It is curious that there is a group of volunteers who look after the grounds of the park.
However, in 2020, these volunteers became involved in a scandal.
During the massive protests after the tragic death of George Floyd, the statue of Baldwin was covered with such words as “colonizer” and “murderer”.
Then the volunteers came out with official comments on this situation. They also noted that Baldwin was actually an abolitionist. He actively defended the rights of African Americans by sponsoring the creation of schools for them and providing jobs. Moreover, he became the victim himself because of this. He was forced to close enterprises in the southern states.
The volunteers’ statements were later received positively by the public, while liberal publications began to publish caricatures depicting protesters.