Crest Street Park

A Piece of Durham History

Tucked away in west central Durham, North Carolina, you'll find the 6.83-acre Crest Street Park. This green space carries quite a story, having originally been known as "Hickstown" after its owner Hawkins Hicks.

Back in 1922, the Hickstown School - a modest three-teacher institution - was established here. Over the next five years, the school expanded in both size and funding, playing its part in Durham County's notable growth during that era.

From Schoolhouse to Community Space

The original school building stood until 1956 when it was torn down and replaced with a more modern brick structure. Interestingly, this new building only served its original purpose for about a decade before finding new life.

Today, part of the building provides senior housing, while another section has transformed into the W.I. Patterson Recreation Center - now a summer camp hub for Durham Parks and Recreation. It's an interesting example of how spaces can evolve to serve different purposes over time.

Get Your Game On

For those interested in sports, Crest Street Park offers several options. The park features a well-maintained baseball/softball field that's great for adult games. The short fences at about 275 feet make it an appealing spot for those hoping to hit home runs.

Basketball more your style? The park's basketball court offers an ideal spot for shooting hoops or joining a pickup game. And for the little ones (ages 2-12), there's a playground with standard swings and some unique play equipment, all kept in great condition.

Take a Break

Need a spot for your next family gathering? The park's picnic shelter can be rented for events, giving you covered space for everything from birthday celebrations to community meetings - rain or shine.

You'll come across one or two grills near the shelter area, excellent for cooking up some burgers and hot dogs. And don't worry about the basics - the park offers clean restrooms and water fountains to keep everyone comfortable.

Crest Street Park operates Monday through Friday from 8AM to 5PM, but note that it's closed on weekends. Its central location makes it easily accessible for nearby residents, offering a valuable green retreat and recreational space in this part of Durham.