City Workers recently removed the sign that had defined Jackson Park. In 1895, the city opened “Alameda Park” on property that once belonged to local railroad baron A. A. Cohen. In 1909, the city renamed the park for President Andrew Jackson. The city’s Recreation and Parks Commission voted to rename the park. A new name has not yet been chosen.
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In the early part of the 20th century Isabelle and George Clark lived in an apartment at 1173 Park Ave., just three houses from the southern tip of oval-shaped Jackson Park. In 1920, sometime after George died, Isabel installed a bench at the park’s southern tip to remember him.
I grew up in Alameda and spent many glorious childhood summers in our parks. I have significant nostalgia for these places, central as they are to my childhood memories. Now that I am raising my own children in Alameda, I’m honored to serve as a Commissioner on the Alameda Recreation and Parks Commission. Our park system is a point of great pride in this town and an incredible asset to our community.
The Alameda Recreation and Parks Commission (ARPC) voted 5-0 on Thursday, July 9 to rename Jackson Park. The park, located on Park Avenue between San Jose and Encinal avenues, was named in 1909 for President Andrew Jackson.
After its meeting last Thursday, the Alameda Recreation and Parks Commission agreed to make an effort to restore the Isabelle Clark-donated bench at the south end of Jackson Park. The commission heard from a group of residents dedicated to preserving the bench.
The Alameda Sun received a copy of this letter addressed to Amy Wooldridge, director of the Alameda Recreation and Park Department.
Dear Ms. Wooldridge:
Jackson Park has been our family’s front yard for 13 years. As a "passive-use park" Jackson needs places for people to relax. The Clark Memorial Bench is such a place. Its crescent shape makes it ideal for small groups to gather and talk. It is durable — made of solid concrete — and has lasted 94 years.
