Will Rogers Memorial Park facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Will Rogers Memorial Park |
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Will Rogers Memorial Park
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Type | Municipal |
Location | 9650 Sunset Boulevard, Beverly Hills, California |
Area | 5 acres (2.0 ha) |
Created | 1915 |
The Will Rogers Memorial Park is a beautiful public park located in Beverly Hills, California. It's a great place for families and friends to relax and enjoy nature. This park is famous for its lovely gardens, a peaceful pond, and its connection to a well-known American humorist.
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Where is Will Rogers Park Located?
This park has a unique triangle shape. It is surrounded by three important streets: West Sunset Boulevard, North Canon Drive, and North Beverly Drive. Right across the street from the park, you'll find the famous Beverly Hills Hotel. The park covers about 5 acres, which is like five football fields!
What Can You See at Will Rogers Park?
Will Rogers Memorial Park offers many cool things to see and do.
Explore the Park's Features
The park has a calm pond where you can spot fish and turtles swimming around. In the middle of the pond, there's a pretty fountain. You can also walk on the green lawns, enjoy the colorful rose gardens, and see tall palm trees. There's even a special dragon tree! Paved paths wind through the park, perfect for a stroll.
Learn About the Park's History
As you explore, you'll find two bronze plaques. These plaques share interesting facts about the park's past. There's also a smaller plaque that tells you about the Beverly Hills Garden Club, which helps make the park beautiful.
History of Will Rogers Memorial Park
This park has a long and interesting history, being the very first public park in Beverly Hills.
When Was the Park Built?
Construction of the park began in 1912. It officially opened to the public in 1915. For many years, it was known as Sunset Park.
Movies Filmed at the Park
Did you know a movie was filmed here? In 1932, parts of the film Pack Up Your Troubles were shot in the park. This movie starred the famous comedy duo Laurel & Hardy.
Why Was the Park Renamed?
In 1952, Sunset Park got a new name: Will Rogers Memorial Park. It was renamed to honor Will Rogers. He was a very popular humorist and actor. Will Rogers was also the first Honorary Mayor of Beverly Hills from 1926 to 1928. He often visited the park with his family.
Park Renovations and Special Additions
The park has been cared for over the years. It was rededicated in 1997 and renovated again in 2005 to keep it looking great.
In September 2014, the fountain in the park was given a new name. It became the Margaret J. Anderson Fountain. This was to honor the first owner of the Beverly Hills Hotel.
In October 2014, something special was planted: 160 Beverly Hills Centennial Roses. These are a unique type of rose created for the city's 100th birthday. A kind rose breeder named Dr. Keith Zary donated them.