St. Joseph Parkway facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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St. Joseph Park and Parkway System
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St. Joseph parkway, April 2016
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 Location in Missouri
Location in the United States
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| Location | Roughly, along Northwest, Northeast, Corby Grove, Southwest and A Pkwys. and Noyes Blvd. from Krug Park to Hyde Park, St. Joseph, Missouri |
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| Area | 983 acres (398 ha) |
| Architect | Robinson, Charles Mulford; et al. |
| Architectural style | Renaissance |
| MPS | St. Joseph MPS |
| NRHP reference No. | 94001566 |
| Added to NRHP | January 20, 1995 |
The St. Joseph Park and Parkway System is a special historical area located in St. Joseph, Missouri. It's like a long, green ribbon that winds through the city for 26 miles. This system is perfect for hiking, biking, and enjoying nature.
It was created in 1918 by a famous park designer named George Burnap. St. Joseph was one of the first cities in the United States to have such a big plan for connecting its parks. This "green belt" links many parks and fun places, giving everyone a natural escape right in the city.
The St. Joseph Parkway system was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1994. This means it's recognized as an important historical site for the whole country.
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Discovering the St. Joseph Parkway System
The St. Joseph Park and Parkway System is a fantastic network of parks and roads. It's designed to connect different green spaces across the city. Imagine a long, green path where you can walk, run, or bike for miles!
This system helps people enjoy nature and stay active. It also protects natural areas within the city. It's a great example of how cities can plan for both growth and green spaces.
What is a Parkway?
A parkway is more than just a road. It's a special kind of road that often goes through or connects parks. Parkways are usually designed to be scenic, with trees, plants, and beautiful views.
They are often used for recreation, like biking or walking, rather than just for fast driving. The St. Joseph Parkway is a perfect example of this idea. It's a place for people to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
A Vision for Green Spaces
The idea for the St. Joseph Parkway System began over a hundred years ago. City leaders wanted to create a beautiful and healthy city for everyone. They hired George Burnap, a very talented landscape architect.
Burnap had a big vision: to connect all the main parks in St. Joseph with a continuous green path. This would make it easy for people to get from one park to another while enjoying nature. His plan was very forward-thinking for its time.
How the Parkway Was Built
Building the parkway was a huge project. It involved planning out the routes and designing the landscapes. The goal was to make the parkway blend in with nature.
Workers planted many trees and shrubs along the paths. They also created special areas for people to stop and enjoy the scenery. It took many years to complete Burnap's full vision for the system.
Enjoying the Parkway Today
Today, the St. Joseph Park and Parkway System is a popular spot for many activities. You'll see people of all ages using it. It's a great place to get some exercise or just relax.
Fun Activities on the Parkway
- Biking: The smooth paths are perfect for a bike ride. You can explore different parts of the city on two wheels.
- Hiking and Walking: Many people enjoy walking or jogging along the scenic routes. It's a peaceful way to spend time outdoors.
- Picnics: Some areas along the parkway have spots where you can stop for a picnic with friends or family.
- Nature Watching: Keep an eye out for local birds and wildlife. The parkway's green spaces are home to many creatures.
Why is it a Historic District?
The St. Joseph Park and Parkway System is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This means it's important because of its history and design. It shows how cities used to plan their green spaces.
It's a great example of early 20th-century city planning. The parkway reminds us of the vision people had for beautiful and functional public spaces. Protecting it helps future generations enjoy this special place.
Protecting Our History
Being a historic district helps protect the parkway from changes that could harm its original design. It ensures that this important part of St. Joseph's history is preserved. It's a way to honor the past while enjoying the present.
The parkway is not just a path; it's a living piece of history. It shows how smart planning can create lasting benefits for a community.
