Friends of Maxwell Park gather for tour

About 40 community members gathered on Saturday at the first tour conducted by Friends of Maxwell Farm Park, a group formed by historian/professor Larry Davis. The two-hour walking tour began in the parking lot, and traversed all sections of the park. First stop was along Maple Avenue, which once bordered the Northern side of the property. Davis explained how that section was annexed by the County of Sonoma, in part to accommodate a new bridge but also to accommodate the need for parking of the various “dance halls” lining the street. The annexation, like all others to follow, was marked by controversy.

Second stop was the location of the removed bridge, where concrete pilings still stand. The grove of trees was bisected and an older picnic ground eliminated by the construction of Verano Avenue and the raising of the roadbed. Sonoma Creek, still flowing despite the drought, was seasonally damned to create a “swimmin’ hole.”

Next stop was the the top of the terraced hillside overlooking what is now the ball field of the Boys and Girl’s Club. The area was once a natural amphitheater where thousands would congregate for the 4th of July celebration, theatrical presentations and community picnics.

The group then made its way into the portion of the park designated under a conservation easement; the riparian corridor, oak and bay forests and meadows which remain undeveloped. The path through the peaceful and tree-filled space eventually led to Sonoma Creek, where the group rested and took in the sound of running water amid rounded river stones. Twenty feet above, the banks of Riverside Drive reminded everyone of the proximity of this park to the more traveled part of the community.

Resting on the bleachers back by the ball field, questions were asked and overall appreciation for the existence of the park expressed. The group was reminded that the County Parks Department is engaged in the process of gathering community opinion as to revisions of the park’s master plan, and public participation is vital to that outcome.

For more information contact: Friendsofmaxwellpark.org