How to get there: Directions
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PARK
HOURS:
4:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m. |
ABOUT
GARNER:
Garner Park is an interesting blend of physical
and social landscape. The
greater part of its forty-two acres rises along a knoll to an
overlook, where the award-winning Garner Shelter has been built.
Patrons use this unique facility for picnics and social
gatherings of all variety. Annually,
the park is home to a Soap Box Derby, and Opera in the Park, a free
community event. In the warmer months, the park becomes a popular site for
recreational activities, especially soccer.
While in the winter months, attractions include ice
skating and hockey rinks. Furthermore,
its location at the junction of Mineral Point and Rosa roads makes
Garner a convenient stop for those living on the west side. |
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FEATURES:
Garner Park is also a site for Free
Mulch.
Go to: To find other locations
*Please note the baseball and
softball fields are maintained for recreational use only.
These fields are not lined. All
users must bring in their own equipment including
diamonds.
**This soccer field is frequently
reserved by various recreational organizations. To check on
availability and to reserve, please call 266-4711.
Recycling:
Madison Parks Department encourages recycling away from home.
In the parks, please take home the recyclable material you bring to
the park.
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HISTORY
OF GARNER PARK:
In 1965, the City rightfully acquired the forty
acres that would later become Garner
Park.
Previously, the University of
Wisconsin had owned the property, and
its College of Agriculture had been
using the land for purposes of
experimental farming.
While purchasing the land, the
Madison Board of Park Commissioners
resolved to name the new park in honor
of the respected Alderman and Colonel,
Harrison L. Garner, who retired that
very year after thirty-five years of
service with the City Council.
Garner enlisted in the Army in
1906 and went on to become a full
colonel in 1942, his duty with the Army
spanning a total of forty years.
In 1970, Col. Garner donated one
hundred shares of United States Steel
common stock as an endowment to the City
of Madison so that youth programs and
play equipment could be provided at the
park.
Also in 1970, Commissioners
approved plans for a shelter to be
constructed at Garner.
Six years later, the Garner
facility designed by Stuart William
Gallagher was completed and won first
prize in a national competition of new
park facilities for which it had been
submitted.
To this day, the building remains
the only one of its kind in the Madison
park system.
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