Reservoir Park

Historic Origins

Tucked away at the corner of 1300 East and 100 South in Salt Lake City, Reservoir Park is a little slice of history wrapped in 6.4 acres of urban greenery. This space isn't just any park - it's a living piece of Salt Lake's past.

The story begins back in 1900, when this spot served as the Thirteenth East Reservoir, one of the city's first major water sources. With a capacity exceeding 5 million gallons, it was quite the engineering feat for its time - the largest reservoir outside of City Creek Canyon.

Water Infrastructure Legacy

This wasn't just a big pool of water. The reservoir was a crucial lifeline, collecting precious water from Emigration Creek, Parley's Creek, and later on, Big Cottonwood Creek to quench the thirst of Salt Lake's growing population.

By 1914, the city added a decorative concrete wall along 1300 East Street, giving the utilitarian water tank a more aesthetic appearance. In 1929, someone had the brilliant idea to incorporate the reservoir into the city's park system, creating a space where people could gather and enjoy the outdoors.

Evolution and Transformation

The park continued to adapt with the times. 1956 saw tennis courts popping up on the reservoir's deck - because why not serve some aces atop millions of gallons of water, right?

Fast forward to 1993, when structural issues forced the tennis courts to close. Rather than simply abandoning the site, the city got creative. When the University of Utah needed somewhere to dump fill dirt from a construction project, Reservoir Park said, "Send it over!" That dirt became the foundation for the grassy area we enjoy today.

Modern Use

Now, Reservoir Park represents a tranquil urban oasis where history and recreation blend seamlessly. Its proximity to the University of Utah makes it a favorite hangout for university-area residents looking for a quick escape from campus life.

What it lacks in size, it makes up for in character. You won't find sprawling meadows here, but the intimate setting works well for unwinding with a book or catching up with friends.

Recreational Amenities

Kids gravitate toward the playground with its swings, slides, and climbing structures. The sandbox and safety flooring mean parents can relax a bit while the little ones burn off energy.

The modest picnic areas scattered within the park offer delightful spots to enjoy lunch or host a small gathering. These spaces often feel surprisingly private despite being in the middle of the city.

Spread a blanket on the open grassy areas for some casual frisbee or simply to watch clouds drift by. The mature trees casting cool shadows make even the hottest summer days bearable.

Reservoir Park shows how cities can evolve - transforming yesterday's infrastructure into today's green spaces while preserving history. It's not the biggest park in Salt Lake, but its unique backstory makes it interesting.