Ellis Park

A Hidden History: The Story Behind Ellis Park

Found in southeast Fort Worth lies Ellis Park, a 10.5-acre green sanctuary that locals have been enjoying since 1971. The park owes its existence to the generosity of J. Merida Ellis, who donated the land to the city. For quite some time afterward, Ellis Park remained largely undeveloped - a quiet reserve with minimal facilities but plenty of potential.

From Basic to Beautiful: The Park's Evolution

Things started to change in the late 1990s when a private developer stepped in with funding to breathe new life into Ellis Park. Around the year 2000, these improvements were completed, transforming the space into a more welcoming recreational area for neighborhood residents.

Echoes of the Past

There's more to this area than meets the eye. Before Ellis Park existed, Ellis Lake was a popular private recreational spot in the early 20th century. You can picture it near the intersection of East Berry Street and South Riverside Drive. The lake eventually gave way to progress when it was drained in the late 1950s to make room for the Southgate Shopping Center that many Fort Worth residents know today.

Far From Just a Park

Today, Ellis Park is a green space where the community can gather, play, and connect with nature. Beyond its recreational value, the park contributes to the local ecosystem, hosting various plant and animal species. If you're interested in the wildlife you spot during your visit, consider recording your observations through citizen science programs like iNaturalist - it's a great way to help document the natural diversity of this neighborhood spot.