Welcome to 2021
Happy 2021 and welcome to our first newsletter of the year! We hope to share great news about Memorial Park on a regular basis, at least quarterly, to keep you informed about events and other happenings in the park. And, if you capture a great photo of the beauty you find in the park, please send it to info@memparkjax.org and we’ll share it here and/or on social media.
So what’s happening in the park?
We’re pleased to share that the City of Jacksonville’s long-awaited replacement of the hurricane-damaged balustrade has been underway since early last fall. The contractor, Intron Technologies, is currently overseeing the creation of the new balusters (offsite), and the project is scheduled for completion later this spring. Above are concrete samples created to find the best match in rebuilding the balustrade. Intron used a salvaged baluster to create a mold for the new pieces. Find out more ››
The tree canopy was recently pruned to ensure the health of the trees and provide the proper amount of sun exposure, through dappled light, to the plant beds and grass.
Of balusters and books…
Pieces of Memorial Park’s 600-foot-long balustrade were salvaged after Hurricane Irma and are now available. 100% of the proceeds will benefit Memorial Park Association and will be used for park maintenance. To make arrangements to view the inventory of balustrade pieces — large, small and in-between, email info@memparkjax.org.
Purchase the newest book by Wayne Wood, author and historian, about the man behind the sculpture. “LIFE: The Untold Story of Charles Adrian Pillars” is a great read, and a work of art worthy of any coffee table display. More than 10 years in the undertaking, the 432-page volume has more than 200 photos and sells for $49.95 plus tax. Published by the Jacksonville Historical Society, sales through this link will result in proceeds for Memorial Park Association: Order here ››
What’s in bloom?
The Camellias (Camellia japonica “Kramers Supreme”) are currently blooming and have been since late last year (below, left). The Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow shrubs (Brunfelsia australis), are also flowering which provide a fascinating display of flowers from spring until the end of summer. The flowers start out purple and gradually fade to lavender and then white. The shrub also has delightfully fragrant flowers of all three colors throughout its blooming season. On the far right, below, are small yellow flowers from the Soft Caress Mahonia (Mahonia eurybracteata) shrub, which also bloom in the winter.
Pop Quiz
We asked readers of our newsletter to test their knowledge of the history of Memorial Park to win a tote bag, frisbee, picnic blanket or
other Memorial Park Association swag.
In what year did the Olmsted Brothers Landscape Architects
submit their original park design to the Citizens Committee responsible for raising the funds to build the park?
The answer is: 1922
Welcome new officers, thank new park sponsors
The new calendar year brings new officers to the Memorial Park Association Board of Directors and new Adopt the Park sponsors.
Join us in welcoming the following individuals as elected officers:
President: Michele L. Luthin
Executive Vice President: Laurie N. Jarvis
Secretary: Kate A. Hallock
Treasurer: Ann R. Mackey
Vice Presidents: Patrick M. Emmet and Vickie L. Mangin
We are so thankful for our Adopt the Park Sponsors! When you visit the following businesses, be sure to thank them for sponsoring Memorial Park!
C.A. Pillars Society Sponsor:
Haskell
Promenade Level Sponsors:
Cool Moose Café, Duval Motor Company, Riverside Liquors, VyStar Credit Union
Mr. Dawson Society Sponsors:
BDO, Black Sheep Restaurant Group, Harbinger Signs, SaniGLAZE
Esplanade Level Sponsors:
River & Post, The UPS Store, Wingard
Volunteer with MPA!
Are you interested in volunteering? Email volunteer@memparkjax.org to let us know you are interested and we will be in touch with you regarding opportunities.
Support Memorial Park Association
Memorial Park Association’s mission is to preserve, enhance and promote Memorial Park as the premier historic city park in Jacksonville. Your donations allow MPA to keep the park beautiful and to continue to preserve everything that you enjoy. Donations fund special projects and supplement maintenance and operation costs that are not covered by the City. Donate here ››
|
Our Contact Information
Memorial Park Association
1650-302 Margaret Street, #322
Jacksonville, FL 32204-3869
info@memparkjax.org
