Gould Park facts for kids

Gould Park is a large public park located in the beautiful city of Santa Barbara, California. It's a special place because it was a generous gift from Charles W. and Clara H. Gould back in June 1926. This park is huge, covering more than 360 acres, which is like having over 270 football fields! What makes Gould Park unique is that the City has kept it mostly undeveloped since they received it.

Discovering Gould Park

Gould Park is a fantastic example of a natural space preserved for everyone to enjoy. Unlike many city parks with playgrounds or sports fields, much of Gould Park remains wild and untouched. This means it's a great spot to see nature as it truly is.

A Gift to Santa Barbara

The park's story began in 1926 when Charles W. and Clara H. Gould decided to donate this large piece of land to the City of Santa Barbara. Their gift ensured that this beautiful area would be protected and available for public use for generations to come. It was a wonderful way to contribute to the community and preserve nature.

Early Decisions and Challenges

In 1932, a few years after the park was established, the Southern California Edison company received permission to build and maintain a transmission line across the northern part of the park. This line helps deliver electricity to homes and businesses. Later that same year, the Park Commission, which is a group of people who help manage the city's parks, talked about developing Gould Park for fun activities like sports or picnics. However, they decided not to go ahead with the idea because only a small part of the land was really suitable for those kinds of developments. This decision helped keep the park in its natural state.

What Makes Gould Park Special?

Because Gould Park has remained largely undeveloped, it offers a unique experience. It's a place where you can explore natural landscapes and perhaps spot local wildlife. It acts as an important green space within the city, providing fresh air and a quiet escape from busy urban life. Its large size and natural condition make it a valuable resource for both people and animals.