A Park Born In Controversy

Helen McKennan's will, gifting 20 acres of land for a new park, became the center of intense public debate after her death in 1906. She also gave her home, the former residence of Col. Melvin Grigsby, to be sold to fund park improvements.

Mayor Frank W. Pillsbury considered selling 10 park acres with the home. Public sentiment and an emphatic appeal by Edwin A. Sherman, estate executor, convinced the City Council to honor the wishes of Helen McKennan. Creation and development of this 20-acre park was assured.