Silver Springs Park

Historical Significance

Silver Springs Park, established in 1918, is a significant historical site located in Springfield, Missouri. The park was founded on land formerly known as the old Fairbanks pasture and was named after a spring that flows into Jordan Creek, which runs through the park.

During the era of segregation, Silver Springs Park held particular importance as it was the only public park in Springfield designated for use by Black residents. It served as a center for African-American sports leagues, including semi-pro baseball. The park's rich history is commemorated by its inclusion in the African-American Heritage Trail.

Development and Features

In the 1930s, the Works Progress Administration (WPA) contributed to the park's development by constructing fieldstone retaining walls, the first Silver Springs Pool, and lining the creek channel with rock. These historical elements add to the park's character and serve as a reminder of its past.

Today, Silver Springs Park continues to be a popular recreational spot for Springfield residents. It features various facilities for different activities and hosts the annual Park Day Reunion on the first weekend of August.

Community Celebrations

The Park Day Reunion celebration includes a parade, beauty pageant, concerts, and a barbecue picnic, drawing participants from across the nation.

The park is also home to Timmons Hall, a former African American church that was relocated to the park in 2015 and now serves as an event facility offering historical, cultural, and educational opportunities. The Jordan Creek Greenway connects Silver Springs Park to other local parks, enhancing its accessibility and integration within the broader Springfield park system.