Two Kentucky Parks Have a History of Monkeys & One Big Lagoon [PHOTOS]

It is always neat to find out the history of your community.  Two parks in Kentucky have quite a past and we decided to dig it up.

PARKS IN OWENSBORO

Many people don't know there are at least 23 parks in the City of Owensboro.  From world-famous Smothers Park to the smaller parks within the different neighborhoods.

Some of these parks have a deep-rooted history and didn't quite look like they do now.  We decided to take a look.

CHAUTAUQUA PARK WAS ONCE A LAGOON

Chautauqua originally known as a community park on the east side of Owensboro was home to many community meetings.  The park began as 32 acres covered with beauty and water (the lagoon).  Unfortunately, the lagoon had to be filled in due to problems with silt and debris.

It eventually progressed adding a Community Center, Olympic-size swimming pool, ball fields, picnic shelter, and park maintenance house.

The park is now home to the Owensboro Parks & Recreation Department offices, Combest Swimming Pool, and a skatepark.

LEGION LIKED TO MONKEY AROUND

Legion Park used to house animals! It was originally called Hickman Park, after James Hardin Hickman, until he encouraged the city commissioners to honor Owensboro men who had fought in World War I.  After his suggestion, the park was eventually named the American Legion Park.

The park was home to many large trees, lots of green space, and a walkway surrounding the park, it also had a monkey house that housed two monkeys and other animals from white rabbits, foxes, coons, and a variety of birds.  The park was also home to two fishing ponds, a bandstand, and a concession stand.

Legion has had a major facelift in the past 20 years from a beautiful new Spraypark to a brand-new playground area complete with a workout section,a dog park, a walking trail, and two event shelters.

Get our free mobile app