Broderick Park facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Broderick Park |
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Fishing is a popular activity at Broderick Park, a small riverfront park on Buffalo's West Side.
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| Type | Regional park |
| Location | 1170 Niagara Street Buffalo, NY 14213 |
| Nearest city | Buffalo, New York |
| Operated by | City of Buffalo |
| Open | All year |
Broderick Park is a special park located right next to the Niagara River in Buffalo, New York. It's a great spot for outdoor fun and has a really important history!
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Where is Broderick Park?
Broderick Park is a long, narrow park found at the very end of Unity Island. It sits between the Niagara River and the Black Rock Canal. From the park, you can see the border with Canada. You can also spot the Peace Bridge, which connects New York State to Ontario, Canada, at Fort Erie.
Fun Things to Do at the Park
Broderick Park offers many fun things for people living nearby and visitors. It's part of Buffalo's "Micro Parks" system. This system helps keep the park nice and adds new things for everyone to enjoy.
Broderick Park's Role in the Underground Railroad
This park is very important in history because it was a key place for the Underground Railroad. Because it's so close to Canada, it was a transit area for African-Americans seeking freedom. They were heading to Canada, which was a safe place for them.
The Black Rock Ferry and Freedom
The area where the park is now once had docks for the Black Rock Ferry. This ferry is known for helping people escape slavery. It carried them across the Niagara River to Canada, where they could be free.
The Fugitive Slave Law of 1850
These escapes became even more common after the Fugitive Slave Law of 1850 was passed. This law made it harder for African-Americans to be safe, even in free states. It pushed more people to seek liberty in Canada. It's interesting to know that Millard Fillmore, who was from Buffalo and became President, signed this law. After the American Civil War and the Emancipation Proclamation, the park was no longer a secret escape route.
Remembering History: Reenactments
Today, people often hold special events at Broderick Park to remember its role in the Underground Railroad. The Buffalo Quarters Historical Society helps organize these reenactments and commemorations. In 2010, the U.S. National Park Service officially recognized Broderick Park. It is now part of the National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom.
Park Improvements and Future Plans
Broderick Park, being so close to the Peace Bridge, is sometimes used for public meetings about border issues. In 2012, exciting plans were announced to improve the park. These plans included a $1.5 million project to add a new outdoor stage and better facilities. There would also be a new memorial to celebrate the park's important connection to the Underground Railroad. This project started in 2013, making the park even better for everyone.
