J. Hood Wright Park facts for kids
J. Hood Wright Park is a fun park in the Washington Heights neighborhood of Manhattan, New York City. It covers about 6.7 acres (2.7 hectares). You can find it between Fort Washington and Haven Avenues, from West 173rd to West 176th Streets.
This park has lots of cool things for everyone to enjoy. It features a playground, sports courts, and even a recreation center. You can also find a special area for dogs, a natural cave, and a unique modern sculpture.
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What Can You Do at J. Hood Wright Park?
J. Hood Wright Park offers many activities and features for visitors. It's a great place to play, relax, and explore.
Playgrounds and Sports
The park has a fantastic playground where kids can have fun. A special feature of the playground is a model of the nearby George Washington Bridge. You can even see the real bridge from the park!
- Playground: Perfect for younger visitors.
- Basketball Courts: Great for playing hoops with friends.
- Ballfields: Open spaces for various sports and games.
Recreation Center and Other Features
The park also has a recreation center. Its unique hexagonal shape and cupola were restored in 2013. This center provides indoor activities for the community.
- Recreation Center: A place for indoor fun and programs.
- Dog Walk: A dedicated area for your furry friends to enjoy.
- Natural Cave: Explore a cool cave formed by the park's natural rock.
- "3000 AD Diffusion Piece": See a modern sculpture by artist Terry Fugate-Wilcox.
Who Was J. Hood Wright?
The park is named after James Hood Wright (1836-1894). He was a very important person who used to own the land where the park is now.
A Generous Man
J. Hood Wright was a successful banker and financier. He was also a kind person who gave money to help others. This is called being a philanthropist.
- He was born in Philadelphia in 1836.
- He lived in a large house near the park site.
- Wright secretly gave money to turn a local library into a free one. This library later became a branch of the New York Public Library.
How the Park Was Created
The city decided to create J. Hood Wright Park because the neighborhood needed more green spaces.
From Private Land to Public Park
The city officially bought the land for the park in 1925. They used a process called eminent domain to get the property. This means the government can buy private land for public use, even if the owner doesn't want to sell it.
- The city acquired the land in 1925.
- The main goal was to build a much-needed park.
- Over the years, the park has been improved and renovated.
Community Support
A local group called the "Friends of J. Hood Wright Park" helps support and care for the park. They work to keep it a wonderful place for everyone in the neighborhood.
Images for kids
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The Recreation Center in J. Hood Wright Park
