Our Past Is Present October 11, 2017

October 11, 2017

            This is “Our Past Is Present” from the Geary County Historical Society.

            Today’s story comes from a newspaper article dated March 27, 1947.  The headline was “Start Work On War Memorial – Landscaping of South Jefferson Street Park Is Underway”.

This is the area we now call Coronado Park.  The author of the 1947 article wrote that the “landscaping is expected to make it one of the most beautiful spots in Junction City.  The park is located between Vine and Ash Streets, just north of the hospital grounds. In a central location in the park will be a monument with a bronze plate bearing the names of approximately 80 men who gave their lives in WWII.  Prominent in the landscape plan will be 80 trees, which will be planted in honor of the memory of each of the men.”  This memorial was a joint project of the Woman’s Relief Corps and Veterans of Foreign Wars with the cooperation of other organizations and individuals.  The V.F.W. provided the monument and bronze plate.  A six-foot marble monument, three feet wide and eight inches thick was ordered for the park display.

The author of the article also wrote that the trees will be Oaks, American and Chinese Elms, Maples and others.  There will also be foliage placed for the winter months.  A small parking area and driveway are planned along the north side of the Park.”

            The Coronado Park has changed some over the years with the addition of playground equipment, a shelter house and basketball court for instance.  However, it remains one of our attractive parks in town where people can relax, enjoy the facilities and celebrate the contributions made by those who have served out country.

            And… that’s today’s story on “Our Past Is Present” from the Geary County Historical Society.