August 16, 2023 - In celebration of reaching the 100-year milestone, Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Director Steve McDaniel dedicated improvements to Bowser Park today along with Fort Wayne Deputy Mayor Karl Bandemer, park and neighborhood representatives and public officials.
The park sign now proudly displays a Centennial Legacy Park insignia. In addition, a revolving art mural by artist Lyndy Bazile evokes civic pride in the park and neighborhood and stands just yards away from the original stone marker provided by Sylvanus and Sarah Bowser in 1923. The stone is inscribed “for the comfort and pleasure of our neighbors and their children for all time to come.” Interior and exterior upgrades to the pavilion feature updated restrooms and walkways to make them accessible to people with disabilities, concrete improvements and a new roof.
“It’s important to honor the intent of the Bowser family here on the land that they donated 100 years ago,” said Director Steve McDaniel. “Sylvanus Bowser was a successful inventor and investor here in the southeast side of town. This park remains as a part of his legacy. It’s beautiful to see the connection and pride that the Renaissance Neighborhood has created in this space. It is our goal that this park will continue to serve as a cherished recreational gathering place for families, friends and neighbors.”
Deputy Mayor Bandemer remarks “Being good stewards of our centennial parks recognizes our past heritage and provides hope for our future citizens. Happy anniversary to Bowser Park. It now joins 25 other Legacy Parks in the Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department.”
To see a complete list of Fort Wayne Legacy Parks, visit www.fortwayneparks.org/parks/legacy-parks.html.