Lincoln Park

Historic Origins

Lincoln Park is a historic 5.7-acre public space located in the heart of downtown Greeley, Colorado. Established in 1870 during the founding of Greeley, the park has been a central gathering place for the community for over 150 years.

Originally designed as the cultural and social focus of the city, Lincoln Park was surrounded by a mix of governmental, religious, residential, and business structures.

Past Features

The park initially featured two small lakes named for their shapes - Lake Luna in the southern half and Lake Auricular in the northern half. These lakes were eventually drained due to issues with mosquitoes and flooding of nearby buildings.

Community Significance

Throughout its history, Lincoln Park has hosted numerous community events, festivals, and celebrations. In 1894, it was transformed into an agricultural pavilion for Potato Day, where farmers exhibited various produce for over 6,000 visitors.

Today, the park continues to be a venue for community gatherings and events.

Notable Landmarks

A notable feature of Lincoln Park is the Pioneer Fountain, built in 1907 and dedicated to Greeley's founders. This stone structure contains seashells and a petrified snake, serving as a unique historical landmark within the park.

Preservation Efforts

In 1984, Lincoln Park underwent significant renovations as part of a downtown rejuvenation project, reinforcing its importance to Greeley's urban landscape. The park was listed on the Greeley Historic Register in 1996, recognizing its historical significance to the city.