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Open all year Splashpad open in the summer |
The first publicly owned park in St. Thomas, Waterworks Park originated in the early 1900s as a small area around the Public Utilities Commission's (PUC), pumping station, and water treatment plant. About twenty-five acres (10 hectares) not needed for waterworks purposes were retained as a place of recreation for the citizens of the city and district. Once a tangled willow swamp, the PUC developed beautiful water gardens to the north of the plant beginning in 1932. These gardens exist to this day, being cared for by City of St. Thomas Parks Division since 1969.
To create the park's tranquil setting and natural appeal, five thousand plantings of brilliant flowering annuals among ornamental shrubbery surround the neatly-tended lawns, banks, and unique bridges. Be sure to watch for Waterworks resident Kingfisher, Blue Heron, Osprey, Red-tailed Hawk, and American Kestrel. A new and unique attraction to the park in the north end is the Unity Peace Labyrinth, a place to seek calmness and peace as the many varieties of plants grow at their own natural pace. Waterworks emphasizes the quieter forms of family recreation. You'll enjoy a pleasant stroll across arched foot bridges which join a chain of tiny islands where turtles, goldfish, and other wildlife are found swimming amongst exotic water lillies. An ideal spot for any type of nature study! A trip to the top of the hill on the east side of the park reveals an attractive view of the valley and the dam which creates a beautiful reservoir where you can stretch out on the bank and drop a fishing line or have a picnic while surrounded by acres of reforested banks and highlands. To the south, Waterworks provides a large playground, a new splash pad open in July and August, and picturesque nature and ski trails. Two roomy, reservable shelters among cooling shade trees are part of the fine picnic facilities within the park. Colourful flowers arranged across spacious lawns and the splendid rustic characteristics of Waterworks Park make this an artist's and photographer's delight and a favourite site for wedding pictures. |
