Chester I. Lewis Reflection Square Park

Historical Significance

Chester I. Lewis Reflection Square Park honors the life and legacy of prominent civil rights leader Chester I. Lewis. He played a pivotal role in advancing civil rights, including his guidance during the nation's first successful lunch counter sit-in at Dockum Drug Store in 1958.

The park celebrates Lewis's tireless efforts in fighting segregation and ensuring equality for all. Opened in 2023 after a significant renovation, this park thoughtfully blends historical commemoration with modern public space design.

Art Installations

The park features several visually striking art installations, including works by artists Ellamonique Baccus and Matthew Mazzotta. These works include interpretive art and metal sculptures that highlight Lewis's accomplishments, such as his fight for desegregation and fair housing.

The design incorporates six "echoes" or frames, each symbolizing key milestones in Lewis's life. The park also includes ornamental paving and ample seating areas, offering spaces to relax, gather, or reflect.

Community Hub

Serving as a secondary entrance to the nearby Kansas College of Osteopathic Medicine, the park is a hub for community gatherings, events, and educational inspiration.

The presence of an amphitheater enhances its functionality as a venue for performances and public discourse, aligning with the park's mission to inspire visitors to continue advocating for equality and justice.

Revitalization

The park's transformation has revitalized its physical aesthetic with sustainable materials like galvanized steel structures finished with a protective duplex coating, ensuring durability and reduced maintenance.

This redevelopment has turned the once underutilized and worn site into a vibrant landmark that integrates artistic elements with functionality, all while commemorating an important chapter of Wichita's history.