Lincoln Park

A Park With History

Situated in the heart of downtown Newark, Lincoln Park has been a green retreat since colonial times. At about 6 acres, it's one of the city's original trio of parks, alongside Military Park and Washington Park.

Before it honored the 16th president, locals knew this space as "South Commons" - it got its current name after Abraham Lincoln visited Newark in 1861. The park has seen the city's evolution, from its days in a fashionable neighborhood in the late 1800s to the cultural scene of the early 20th century.

When Jazz Was King

Back in the early 1900s, the area around Lincoln Park earned a nickname with serious swagger: "The Coast." This wasn't about proximity to water, but referred to its vibrant nightlife and jazz scene. The neighborhood was alive with music and energy, creating a significant chapter in Newark's cultural story.

These days, Lincoln Park hasn't lost its musical soul. It remains a cultural gathering spot where community events and festivals bring the city together. The music festivals are particular highlights - annual house music and hip-hop events that keep the park's rhythmic tradition alive.

Art and Ambiance

As you wander through the park, you'll encounter pieces of history frozen in bronze and stone. The Colleoni statue, a 1916 gift from Christian Feigenspan, stands as a silent sentinel. Nearby, "Captive's Choice," erected in 1884, adds another layer to the park's historical narrative.

Well-lit paths guide you through the triangular grounds, where grassy patches and scattered trees offer moments of natural beauty. In the evening, year-round mini-lights strung overhead create a gentle glow throughout the space.

A Neighborhood Living Room

Lincoln Park represents Newark's communal backyard, hosting events and providing a place where people can simply be. While you won't find picnic tables or playground equipment here, the open lawns offer plenty of space to spread out a blanket or just sit and reflect.

Situated just south of downtown on Broad Street, the park is easy to reach and makes for a convenient meeting spot. Regular maintenance keeps the space clean - a welcome patch of green amid the urban landscape.

Looking Forward

In recent years, the park and surrounding area have seen renewed attention. The Lincoln Park/Coast Cultural District organization has been working to breathe new life into the neighborhood, envisioning it as a sustainable community centered around the arts.

Their focus spans affordable housing, green jobs, music, culture, and urban farming. Improvements to the park itself - better lighting and upkeep - reflect Newark's commitment to preserving and enhancing this historic green space for generations to come.