On this Day: Park Dedication
October 12
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On This Day: Fort Tryon Park Dedicated – October 12, 1935
On October 12, 1935, Fort Tryon Park was officially dedicated to the public in a ceremony attended by philanthropist John D. Rockefeller Jr. and New York City Parks Commissioner Robert Moses. Rockefeller, who had gifted the land to the city in 1931, played a pivotal role in the park’s creation, funding its development and commissioning the Olmsted Brothers to design the landscape.
The dedication marked the transformation of a once-private estate into a public haven, offering New Yorkers access to beautifully designed gardens, rolling lawns, and scenic vistas overlooking the Hudson River. In his dedication speech, Rockefeller emphasized the importance of preserving such spaces for public enjoyment and the enrichment of urban life.
Today, Fort Tryon Park remains a cherished green space in Upper Manhattan, providing visitors with a tranquil retreat and a glimpse into the city’s rich history.
