History of Bowring Park - Researcher: Gil Shalev (2009) Design: Stephanie Dunn (2016)
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History of Bowring Park
1 Researcher: Gil Shalev (2009)
Design: Stephanie Dunn (2016)
Table of Contents
GENERAL HISTORICAL FACTS
The Land 3
The Design 5
Development 7
PARK FEATURES AND FACILITIES
Trees/Plants/Flowers 9
The Conservatory 10
Rivers/Streams/Ponds 11
Duck Pond 12
Slate Quarry 14
Shadow Pools 14
Fountain Pond 15
The Fighting Newfoundlander 16
The Caribou 17
Peter Pan 18
The Lodge 20
The Bungalow 21
Angels’ Grove 22
The Bell 22
Horse Trough 23
Bridges 23
Fences & Benches 25
SPORT/LEISURELY FACILITIES
Old Swimming Pool 26
Tennis Court 27
Skate Park 27
Swimming Pool 27
Splash Pad 27
Playground 27
Bob Whelan Field 28
Sloping Field 28
Cabot Theatre 29
AERIAL MAPS 30
REFERENCES/SOURCE 31
2
The Land
Archived photo
Rudolf Cochius was the original landscape architect who worked in the park for 5 years from 1912-1917.
T he original area which
was later to become
Bowring Park, was a 50 acre
impression of a small island.
In 1911, The Bowring
Brothers — an established
which the park was to be
built. The park’s original
design and construction,
piece of land obtained from and successful business, carried out by Frederick
the Newfoundland Govern- Newfoundland trade and Todd and Rudolf H. Cochi-
ment in 1847 by William shipping firm in New- us, commenced the fol-
Thorburn who, had turned it foundland and the UK lowing year. The Park was
into a successful farmland. — commemorated their officially declared open on
The Crown Grant Land was 100th business anniversa- July 15, 1914 by His Roy-
later leased to the Neville ry in Newfoundland by al Highness the Duke of
family who formally named offering the city of St. Connaught who remarked,
the property Rae Island John’s a recreational park “May it ever be a source
Farm. The farm’s perimeter as a token of appreciation of pleasure and enjoyment
was largely encompassed to the local community. to the citizens of St. John's
by two main bodies of wa- The firm purchased Rae and to Newfoundland in
ter the Waterford River and Island Farm from the Nev- general.”
Southbrook River giving the ille family as the land on It is believed that in
3
1583, while exploring New- majesty of this area, the ex-
foundland, Sir Humphrey act location of land they ex-
Gilbert, was shown by plored cannot be verified. It
settlers an area which was has however been suggested May it ever be
locally referred to as ‘The over the years that, The a source of pleasure
Garden. It was described as Garden was at least part of and enjoyment
an untouched, uncultivated
luscious green area with
what is present day Bow-
ring Park. Even if this has to the citizens of St. John’s
several rivers and streams not been substantiated, the and to Newfoundland
running around it. While mere possibility that this in general.
historians have looked at was indeed the park makes
written evidence from Sir the descriptions offered by His Royal Highness
Gilbert's actual expedition Gilbert and his men quite the Duke of Connaught
which extols the beauty and significant. 1
Archived photo
Sir Edgar Bowring and the Duke of Connaught July 15th, 1914.
4
1
Historians however have suggested that there is no evidence to support this.
The Design
To design the Park’s
layout and supervise its
construction, Sir Edgar
Bowring had commissioned
world renowned Land-
scape Architect, Frederick
Todd from Montreal. Todd
previously worked for the
Frederick Law Olsmstead
firm – one of the most not-
ed and reputable landscape
architecture firms in North
America. Though it is said
that Todd was officially in
charge of the project, it was
fellow landscape architect,
Rudolf H. Cochius who was
responsible for bringing
the park’s design to light.
Though historically, there
has been some debate re- its natural beauty and lush designs, it was evident that
garding who specifically scenic landscape. It was their Cochius’ design conformed
was to be credited for the hope that the Park’s con- to and revolved around the
park’s actual design2 and struction would not only pre- present land topography.
layout, most have conclud- serve and maintain the park’s The park’s design involved
ed that it was Cochius’ aesthetic value but that its as little alteration to the land
handiwork and masterful very design would also adapt as possible. The general aim
creativity that spawned the to the landscape itself. This was to build trails, footpaths,
atmosphere and design of sentiment was clearly ech- ponds, etc. in a manner that
the park. Cochius lived and oed in Cochius’ design of truly incorporated itself into
worked in the park from the Park where the landscape the land in a homogeneous,
May 1912 - March, 1917, architecture approach was, non-intrusive and non-de-
and was in charge of all one of working with the structive manner. This was
technical aspects of the terrain and not against it; an also true of trees, shrubs and
parks construction. (His- approach that is evident in flowering plants which were
cock, 2008/09) His vision many of his other landscape all planted in a manner that
and artistry were and, still designs. (Versteeg / Hiscock seamlessly integrated into
are, considered to be the 08/09) Unlike certain parks, the park’s natural biodiversi-
heart and soul of the park. where the existing landscape ty.
Bowrings had purchased could be freely moulded Though its official
Rae Island Farm due to and altered to the architects opening was in 1914, the
2 Landscape Architect Ed Versteeg, who has studied Cochius’ work and the creation of the park, insists there is no reason to suppose that anyone other than Fredrick
Todd was in charge of the park’s original blue print and design. Cochius was in charge of overseeing all construction and subsequent Landscape design and was under
5 his domain that the park by and by came to life, but the design itself belonged to Todd. This is of great importance seeing that while Cochius name is so well engrained
into the parks historical essence – and deservedly so – Todd has become a rather hidden and unknown figure.
Rudolf Cochius
The Duck Pond.
full implementation and
construction of the Park Harry Hamlyn, Park superintendent, 1947
was not completed until “...The aim of the donors was to preserve these gifts
1921 at which point the and beauties of nature as completely as possible and
Bowrings formally hand- to this end the removal of trees was carried out only in conform-
ed it over to the City of ity with the overall design of providing inviting foot paths...
St. John’s. It has been An expert job of horticulture enhanced the forest appeal of the
under municipal govern- park and other varieties of trees were planted here and there.
ment supervision ever Every effort was expanded to preserve Nature’s handiwork and
since. Bowring Park, as to avoid the creation of just another series of botanical gardens.
the only large open space Floral displays have, however, been skilfully blended into the
of its kind in NL, was wood-land scene...” [ Hamlyn, PGP, pg2]
a monumental success
from the very beginning, development within the of the park is owed greatly
during the summers see- park, illustrated by contin- to Cochius’ botanical vi-
ing thousands of visitors uous introduction of new sion which was passed to
daily. For many decades, plant life on park grounds, and adopted by his suc-
it has been a place for the development and cessors; park supervisors
relaxation, scenic walks, maintenance of trails and Alfred Canning (1917)
swimming, boating on the footpaths, and the erection and Harry Hamlyn (1941).
pond, picnics and many of several statues, mon- Though handed to the St.
other cultural and recrea- uments, bridges and oth- John’s Municipality, the
tional activities. The en- er attractions. (See Next Bowrings continuously
suing decades following Section for Details) Much contributed to the park’s
the park’s opening, (1914- of the natural vegetative development both finan-
1940’s), saw tremendous and greenery development cially and culturally.
6
Development
Original Design for Bowring Park by Frederick Todd.
During the 50’s much report strongly expressed als. — ex; Richard Seypka
concern arose regarding the dire need to develop the plan 1982.
the increased use of the new area in order to main- The boundary division
park and the limited space tain the rustic, tranquil feel between the original and
provided for recreational, that Cochius had created. new areas is marked by a
sports, cultural and group The document commonly vehicle bridge overlook-
activities. This was also referred to as the Van Gin- ing the old railway tracks.4
accompanied by ever in- kel Master Plan, contained The main recreational
creasing maintenance costs. comprehensive design and facilities found in the new
According to Landscape Ar- layout schematics as well as area; the ball park, swim-
chitect G.Van Ginkel, it was a plethora of suggestions for ming pool and playground
a City Clerk report in 1956 future development, such as areas were built during the
that had driven the Munici- recreational and sport facili- 1960’s mainly by Federal
pal government to purchase ties, maintenance, transpor- grant money given for the
adjacent estates, farmlands, tation, etc. Over the years ‘beautification’ of munic-
etc.3 Since its opening, the different elements of the ipalities across Canada, to
original 50 acre land has Plan have been implement- celebrate Canada’s 100th
been greatly expanded and ed, depending on financial birthday. The extended
now covers an area of ap- availability and other con- area on which these facil-
proximately 200 acres. The cerns; the usefulness and/ ities were built was land
city had then commissioned or desirability of many parts once owned by former
the Van Ginkle Landscape of the plan have been debat- Newfoundland Prime Min-
Architecture firm to devel- ed by City Officials. Since ister Richard Squires’.
op a plan for the new area then, there have been sever- [SEE END OF DOCU-
of the park. The tone of the al other Master Plan propos- MENT FOR MAP]
7 3 Much of the acquired surrounding land was privately owned by several families: McNab’s, The Obrien’s, Philip Stamp and James Coughlan, and Sir Richard Squires
4 The construction of this bridge was suggested by the Van Ginkle report.
Much of the Park’s
From The Van Ginkel Report….
more recent development
In the past half century the park has served the community well. But in
has come from the Bow- recent years the demands made upon it have been far too great. Since it
ring Park Foundation; A is the only park of any magnitude in the region, growth in population
charitable foundation es- and automobile travel have greatly increased its use. On a fine summer
tablished in 1995 to assist Sunday there may be as many as 10,000 people visiting the park.
the City of St. John’s in This is hardly conducive to the tranquil enjoyment of the landscape.
the restoration, preserva- Furthermore, since so few public open spaces exist, Bowring Park had
tion and future develop- to absorb sports and group activities for which it was not originally
ment of Bowring Park. designed……The greater intensity of use and the changing activities
have rendered Bowring Park quite inadequate as the major recreation
A goal of the Foundation
facility of the St. John’s area. It has lost its original character of quiet
is to ensure the develop- and repose; and over intensive use resulted in high maintenance costs.
ment of a “public garden ….In 1958 Van Ginkel Associates was commissioned by the City of
for quiet family enjoy- St. John’s to design the new park and to outline a master plan for its
ment” as envisioned by development.
its Honorary Patron, Der-
rick Bowring. The Bow-
ring Park Foundation has development projects in as the addition of pro-
had tremendous success such a manner that always grams and activities that
working with the City of takes the original layout, can be enjoyed by all age
St. John’s, and other or- design and atmosphere of groups. They have suc-
ganizations on restoration the park as the highest pri- cessfully brought to light
and development projects ority. Projects include: up- many successful social
within the park. grading and expanding the and private events, activi-
The Foundation walkway systems, bridges, ties, festivals, shows, etc.
strives to engage in park restoration of sculptures
and monuments, as well
Doug Allen
Fountain Pond on a summer’s day.
8
Trees/Plants/Flowers
Historian Paul O’Neil
dedicates a chapter of his
classical textbook of St.
John’s History [The Oldest
City] to the city’s ‘green
spaces.’ He notes that the
late 19th century featured a
growing demand for public
parks in the city. Though
St. John’s was 400 years
old, there were virtually no
public open-space parks
available for leisure and
enjoyment. This was first
remedied by Lord Banner- Stephanie Dunn
man, and the creation of The Weeping Beech tree is comprised of a Weeping Willow and a Beech
Bannerman Park and was Tree.
followed almost immediate-
ly by Victoria Park. Though ring Park has continuously
these were much welcome seen new flora introduced,
additions to the city, it is while preserving and main- Trees/Shrubs/Flowers
was not until Bowring Park taining the old growth.5 The Bowring Park
park is host to many fasci- (From Archives via Park Foundation.
that the city saw a large Original Source Unknown)
traditional Victorian style nating and unique shrubs,
park, with ponds, long flowering plants and trees. Black Spruce – 1915
walking trails, fields, rivers, Of special historical note; White Spruce – 1913
streams, and a slew of trees, Lime/Linden tree planted Norway Spruce – 1916
plants, shrubs, flowers etc. by Duke of Connaught, Snowball Tree – 1916
1914 at park’s inaugural Snowberry – 1915
The extremely fertile
opening; White Oak plant- Spiraea Aruncus – 1930
land purchased by the Syringa – 1917
Bowrings, was teeming ed by Sir Edgar Bowring,
English Yew – 1916
with old and new tree 1920; Purple Beech, plant- White Pine – 1913
growth much of which ed by Governor General Balsam Poplar – 1913
was planted by W. Thor- Viscount Alexander, 1949; Highb Bush Cranberry – 1915
burn. Cochius and his su- Red Oak, planted by Prin- Horse Chestnut – 1914
perintendent successors, cess Mary, 1964; English Dogwod – 1916
Canning and Hamlyn, ex- Oak, planted by Prince Copper Beech – 1915
Edward 1988. Weeping Beech – 1916
pressed great appreciation
The natural biodiversity European Larch – 1915
of the botanical potential of Lime / Linden Tree – 1915
the land that was key to ex- within the park has been a
Norway Maple – 1918
panding the Parks diversity. point of attraction for the Tulips – 1946
Since its early days, Bow- academic/non-academic.
9 5 Paul O’Neill says that in designing the park, Cochius had “….planned a botanical haven containing many hundreds of
species of trees shrub and flowers…” [pg 494]
The Conservatory
The original park greenhouse was converted world such as Pony Tail
Greenhouse was built be- to a Conservatory, though Palm, Sansevieria Trifas-
hind the park Lodge in some still refer to it as a ciata, bromeliads, Birds of
1947 and was a gift from greenhouse or an orna- Paradise and others. The
Sir Edgar Bowring. In mental green house. It site has also been host for
1996 with support from holds a variety of rare and several botanical traveling
a significant donation by exotic plants and shrubs exhibits and a butterfly
Mrs. Doreen Hall, the from many parts of the exhibit.
Stephanie Dunn
The outside of the Conservatory.
Stephanie Dunn
An inside look at the Conservatory.
10Rivers/Streams/Ponds
The park is enclosed by
two serene and beautiful
rivers; the Waterford Riv-
er on the north side, along
several of the park’s main
entrances on Waterford
Bridge Road, and the South
Brook River to the south-
ern edge of the park north
of Pitts Memorial Drive
and Bay Bulls Rd. The
Waterford River begins
in the Town of Paradise
and flows southeastwards
towards the St. John’s
harbour via Bowring Park
where it meets South
Brook River. South Brook Stephanie Dunn
River begins just south of Cobble Stone Bridge has a nickname of “Lovers Bridge.” An old tale used
the city of Mount Pearl to say “If you kiss your significant other on this bridge you will marry.”
flowing southeastwards
towards the Waterford concerns regarding water tional use of the park. (Ka-
valley. The two rivers con- pollution levels in the riv- vanagh, 2008)
verge at the Duck Pond. On er, the pool was closed by Much of the oral tra-
both ends of the park the the City of St. John’s who dition depicting people’s
rivers are accompanied by deemed it unfit for swim- stories, tales and anecdotes
a network of scenic trails, ming. Remnants of the about the park in the ‘old’
footpaths, biking paths, pool wall can still be seen days, is anchored around
bridges. The lower end of upstream from the pink the social and cultural
South Brook River was the granite stone bridge. The significance of visiting the
location of the ‘original’ natural pool was, shortly pool area. It is evident that
park swimming pool. For after, replaced by a mod- while the park was still
over 40 years, the pool ern swimming pool in the seen as a beautiful place to
was one of the main fami- western side of the park. visit and a source of relax-
ly attractions in St. Johns, Though the modern pool ation, a certain element of
offering a bathing location is a very popular summer the park’s allure – especial-
in a serene, lush green attraction for family leisure ly for family outings – had
environment and was one activities, for many people changed for people. Some
of a kind in the city area. It in St. John’s the closing of claim that the number of
was a place for gathering, the old pool had marked a visitors during summers in
socializing, sports activi- dramatic shift in how the the post 60’s era had great-
ties, relaxation, picnics. In city as a whole viewed the ly decreased because of
the mid 60’s, due to rising aesthetic, social, and func- this loss.
11Duck Pond/Boat Lake/The Swan
Stephanie Dunn
Dusk at the Peter Pan Statue.
One of the Park’s promi- the modern day pond has uments/Statues] The Duck
nent attractions is the Duck seen many renovations and Pond is a central hub and
Pond, originally called expansions over the years, meeting spot for many fam-
Boat Lake. The beautiful with introduction of more ily and group gatherings and
pond is almost completely wildlife, beautiful surround- activities.
man-made and is fed by the ing walking trails, seating
Waterford and South Brook benches, statues. Basil Kavanagh,
River. It was designed by The pond has also be- in his beautiful
Cochius and completed in come home to what is now description of the
June, 1913. The pond, as its the park’s symbol – the Roy-
pond says:
original name suggests, was al Swans; six white swans
created primarily as a place were acquired by Superin- “Surrounded by glowing
for leisurely boating trips. tendent H. Hamlyn and masses of colour provided
At the centre of the pond released into the pond in the by various backgrounds
was a small island which summer of 1946. The majes- of pine, spruce and fir amid
has over the years been tic, aesthetic beauty of these the ornamental decoration
redesigned. After bathing swans has been a source of of full-blooming flowers, the
in the river pool, boating great excitement for young boat-lake sets a scene of
exquisite perfection
around the island in the and old alike. At the south
and deep inner contentment...
pond was one of the most west end of the park is a for the enthusiast that like
popular activities in the park beautiful man-made stone to take part or those who
for many decades. The is- step-platform that gives way happen to stroll by,
land was also home to many to Sir George Frampton’s the charisma of the boat-lake
ducks, geese and other fowl. famous Peter Pan Statue. is overpowering.”
No longer a boating centre, [See Next Section on Mon-
12Boat Pond - 1946
The Duck Pond - 2016
13Slate Quarry
Another very attractive
area is a beautiful serene and
hidden spot known as the
Slate Quarry. It is a natural
formation and arrangement
of old flat stones that has
created a magnificent unique
alcove-like area. This has his-
torically been known as the
‘secret hideaway’ by locals
frequenting the park. The
area is of significant historical
value not only for its natu-
ral beauty. It is believed that
Cochius himself spent a lot of
time in this area, for relaxa-
tion and reflection and it has
been suggested that, possibly,
many of his brilliant and crea-
tive ideas that further contrib-
uted to the landscape design,
Stephanie Dunn
were conceived during his
The Slate Quarry where Cochius spent time reflecting.
quiet time in this area.
Shadow Pools
Another expression of
Cochius’ artistic landscaping
genius is evident in the chain
of crystal clear pools evident
as one heads eastwards on
the path from the Caribou
Statue. The chain of pools
commence further upstream
by the vehicular path. The
design and depth of the pools
give a very pronounced light
reflection, visible even when
skies are overcast. The pools
are also of great environ-
mental importance since they
are a spawning ground for
local Brown Trout and home Stephanie Dunn
to many of the Park’s ducks. Floating flower pots in the Shadow Pool.
14Fountain Pond
Crossing the vehicular
bridge and heading south-
west past the modern swim-
ming pool, one arrives at
a beautiful Fountain Pond,
surrounded by benches and
a beautiful walking trail.
The pond, man-made was
originally a fish pond. In
the 70’s the pond was en-
circled with beautiful stone
slabs and a gorgeous foun-
tain originating from the
St. John’s Basilica during August 20th. The project It is a terrestrial-based wa-
church renovations. The was successful not only in ter quality control practice
entire pond area has under- terms of the professional that uses the properties of
gone major remodelling and polished look of the ac- nearby plants, microbes and
and reconstruction as part tual reconstruction but also soil for the removal of water
of a tremendous revitalizing showcased both the com- pollutants. Water is drawn
project undertaken by the mitment of the BPF towards from the pond and distrib-
Bowring Park Foundation, park development as well as uted into a rock sump (or
Husky Energy and the City the commitment of the City embankment) which slopes
of St. John’s. Husky Ener- and Corporate/Business sec- towards a heavily planted
gy’s contribution marks the tor to promoting the vision area. The plant material will
most significant corporate of the Foundation and the bind nutrients and pollutants
donation to the Bowring Bowring Family. To reduce which not only contributes
Park Foundation. water consumption, improve to the growth of the plants
The reconstruction pro- water quality and prevent but naturally filters the
ject was completed in the stagnant water, a simple water before it is redirected
summer of 2008 and the bio-retention system was in- back into the fountain pond.
Pond area was reopened on stalled at the Fountain Pond. (Eales)
Doug Allen
A wide angle shot of the Fountain Pond.
15The Fighting Newfoundlander
One of the most fa- ral Pittman was asked to
mous and historically pose for Captain Gotto in
significant statues in full military combat gear.
Newfoundland, it is a Corporal Pittman would
tribute to the brave sol- pose for an hour each day
diers of The Royal for roughly two months
Newfoundland Reg- until Gotto was finished.
iment who coura- The statue was complet-
geously fought and ed in early 1919 The
sacrificed during statue was donated
World War I. The to the Park in Sep-
statue depicts a tember 1922, by
life-like Sir Edgar Bowring,
scene of expressing both his
a soldier commitment to the
during park as well as his
battle, with one love and affection to
hand holding a rifle and the citizens of New-
the other cocked and foundland who had
ready to throw a grenade. suffered tremendous
The statue is a meticu- losses during the
lous and detailed piece war. The statue was
of work conceived and refurbished in 2007
created by Captain Basil by local sculptor
Gotto, a famous sculptor Luben Boykov.
who was commissioned
during the war to
create a piece
of a ‘fighting
soldier’. The
statue was
posed for
by Corpo-
ral Thom-
as Pittman
of Fortune
Bay, NL. In
1918, while
stationed
in Haz-
ley Down
Camp, Eng-
land, Corpo
16The Caribou
Hamel Memorial Replica
Plaques were unveiled on
Memorial Day and Canada
Day, July 1st 2009. They
are exact replicas of the
plaques in Beaumont Hamel
Park in France. The Beau-
mont Hamel Park opened
in 1925 and is the largest
Newfoundland memorial
site in Europe. When the
Battle of the Somme began
on July 1st, 1916 at 7:30am,
the Newfoundlanders were
Submitted photo the only unit from out-
The Caribou. side the British Isles. They
crouched in their trenches
A further tribute to The the place where hundreds near the little town of Beau-
Royal Newfoundland Reg- of Newfoundland men lost mont Hamel – awaiting
iment is the bronze statue their life. The Royal New- their orders. The call came
of a woodland Caribou. foundland regiment was the at 9:15am and 801 young
Another masterful creation only regiment in the British Newfoundlanders headed
by Captain Basil Gotto, the Army to receive the‘Royal’ out into enemy machine
statue was presented to the prefix in WW1. Days after gun fire. It was over in 30
park in 1928 as a gift from the Battle on the Somme, minutes. 68 men answered
Major William Howe Green, the Corps Com-mander told roll call the next morning.
who had served with the his soldiers that they were The memorial effort began
Newfoundland Regiment “better than the best” which soon after the war ended
during WWI. A replica of has remained the in 1918. Cochius’ vision
the original located at Beau- Regiment’s motto. There are made the Beaumont Hamel
mont Hamel, France, the 5 other Caribous – one at Park in France the only
statue’s erection and loca- each battlefield site in Eu- place on the Somme where
tion within the park – just rope (Gallipoli, Beaumont the trenches and battlefield
east of the Bungalow - was Hamel, Gueudecourt, Mon- were preserved. On these
supervised by park archi- chy-le-Preux, Masnières plaques there are 820 names
tect R. Cochius. Five other and Courtrai). When the of Newfoundland soldiers,
such statues can be found in caribou was unveiled in seamen and sailors who died
France and Belgium. The- Bowring Park it was spec- in WW1 and have no known
Newfoundland Regiment ified that this was not to be graves. This is a significant
had chosen the caribou as considered a memorial like site for Newfoundland and
its official emblem dur- the ones in Europe, but a Labrador – finally, these
ing the war. The original tribute to the regiment’s men can be commemorated
life-size bronze caribou in loyalty and spirit of com-
on their native soil. (Eales)
Beaumont Hamel overlooks radery. (Eales) Beaumont
17Peter Pan
Arguably the most cel-
ebrated, loved and visited
landmark of Bowring Park
is the Peter Pan statue lo-
cated at the southwestern
side of the Duck Pond. The
playful yet striking charac-
ter of this statue is the work
of renowned sculptor Sir.
George Frampton. Framp-
ton was commissioned by
Sir Edgar Bowring to create
a statue that embodied the
spirit and playfulness of
childhood. The statue was
unveiled during a special
“children’s day” event in
the park, August 29, 1925.
It is a memorial to Sir Ed-
gar’s granddaughter, Betty
Munn, who tragically died
at the young age of 4. Betty
and her father, John Munn
– one of the directors of the
Bowring Brothers – were
aboard the SS Florizel ship
bound to Halifax, which
set sail on Feb 23, 1918.
On the very first night of
its voyage, the Florizel was
struck by a violent storm Archived Photo
that forced the ship to crash The sculpter George Frampton unveils the Peter Pan statue August 29,
against rocks off the coast 1925.
of Capahayden. Betty and
her father were among the ebration of childhood. The ever since. Frampton, at the
94 passengers who tragi- statue, depicting a young inaugural ceremony had
cally lost their lives in this Peter Pan playing his flute expressed his own senti-
terrible accident. Though while fairies and animals ment towards the children
its inception was based on a joyfully climb towards him, for whom the statue was
memorial to this sombre and was unveiled in front of ap- for. In explaining the theme
tragic event, the impetus proximately 3000 eager and of the statues he noted that
behind the statue’s presence happy children and has been “... the animals and fairies
in the park was a joyous cel- a source of joy for children on the statue are listening
18to the pipes of Pan, one Garden, Frampton him- began in August 29, 2000
of the mice is complet- self has commented that to commemorate the 75th
ing his toilet before going the special character of anniversary of Sir. Edgar’s
up to listen to the music, the park and its compat- wonderful gift to the park.
(and) the squirrel is dis- ibility with the spirit of Though no longer active,
cussing political matters the literary figure of Pe- the festival was quite suc-
with two of the fairies. ter Pan makes this statue cessful for several years,
Though several similar very unique. The statue with food vendors, musi-
statues of Peter Pan exist was refurbished in 2007. cal and theatrical perfor-
around the world, the most An annual summer outing mances and other family
notable one in Kensington – The Peter Pan Festival – summer activities.
Archived photo
Stephanie Dunn
Harry Hamlyn who was a superintendent of the park
pointing out that Peter Pan’s flute is missing. Present day photo of the Peter Pan Statue.
19The Lodge
At the eastern entrance (Al Canning, H. Hammlyn
of the park, adjacent to etc.). Though the Lodge
the concrete bridge, is the has been remodelled and
Bowring Park Lodge. The renovated over the years it
Lodge was originally erect- has maintained its original
ed as the residence for park location and rustic feel. At
landscape designer Rudolf present the Lodge no longer
Cochius. Cochius and his serves as a home for super-
family had lived there from intendents but is rather the
1913 until his departure in main office for the Bowring
1917. It has since been ei- Park Foundation as well
ther a part-time or full-time as some of the members of
home for ensuing super- the City of St. John’s Parks
intendents after Cochius, Services.
Stephanie Dunn
The Bowring Park Lodge was originally Rudolf Cochius’ home when he worked here overseeing the construc-
tion on the park.
20The Bungalow
Stephanie Dunn
The Bungalow is now leased to Red Oak Catering.
Another main attraction,
found right at the heart of
the park is a large bunga-
low-style house, which is
indeed as old as the park
itself — constructed dur-
ing 1913-1915. It was
built both to serve as a
meeting-gathering place
for park patrons and other
members of park authority,
as well as a location offer- Archived photo
ing several amenities for The Bungalow in 1916.
the public, such as refresh-
ments, snacks. Many of the etc. The management of also a great place for read-
trees on the edges of the services offered at the ing and sunbathing. On the
Bungalow Lawn have been bungalow have exchanged lawn grounds is a beautiful
planted over the years by hands several times over rustic Sundial surround-
royal visitors and other im- the years – since 1999, ed by colourful flowers.
portant public figures. The food and catering services The sundial was donated
serene atmosphere of the have been taken over by by Sir. Edgar Bowring.
landscape and the rustic Red Oak Catering who of- During sunny days with
feel of the bungalow itself, fer elegant catering servic- unobstructed skies the dial
have made this location a es to weddings and other is quite accurate and draws
local St. John’s favourite, events and ceremonies. many curious visitors.
for weddings, ceremonies, The wide-open lawns are
21Angels’ Grove
Adjacent to the Bunga-
low Parking lot, is a grove
of trees overlooking the
Waterford Hospital. As
displayed on the memorial
plaque, this area called the
Angels’ Grove is dedicated
to all babies lost through
miscarriage, ectopic preg-
nancy, stillbirth and new-
born death. In the same lo-
cation, there are 2 old posts
standing in the ground.
These were used to support
a net for racquet games and
were erected before the
Angel’s grove was planted.
This area used to be locally Stephanie Dunn
known as Flag Pole Hill – Angel Grove is a beautiful place where many sit and take in the ambi-
the City used to fly 3 flags ance.
– Canada, Newfoundland
and the City of St. John’s. park. The City removed the to maintain – they had to
They could be seen from a flag pole because it was de- get a fire truck in to paint it!
distance driving towards the teriorating and was a hassle (Eales)
The Bell
The bell mounted on
a large boulder in the
shade of a tree behind the
Conservatory used to be
rung by the Park Super-
intendent to tell patrons
that the park was closing
at 10pm. It used to be up
high in a tower and a rope
was pulled to make it ring.
In 1998 the Park Forep-
erson, Melanie McLeod, Stephanie Dunn
had it removed from the Still one of the most prominent sounds of the park.
basement under the lodge
of uncertainty about where from a ship and others be-
and mounted in its present
the bell originally came lieve it might be from the
location. There’s still a bit
from – some believe it’s old railway. (Eales)
22Horse Trough
The old red horse trough
on the north side of the paved
road leading up to the Bun-
galow is the last of its kind.
It was originally located at
the east end of Duckworth St
near the War Memorial and
Hill O’ Chips street where it
provided water for horses in
the City when horses were
the main mode of transport
before cars. The cobblestones
in the adjacent retaining
wall were once part of Water
Street’s main thoroughfare
and the stone steps a little
further up the road came from
the old Water Street side-
walks. Both of these features
can be seen in other parts of Stephanie Dunn
the park including the Cari- This old horse trough was a life saver to many horses and dogs years ago.
bou site. (Eales)
Bridges
Surrounded by two main is what has been termed ed September 1, 1931. The
rivers and woody hills it is Whale’s Back Falls, which bridge is historically signifi-
only natural that the park is crosses the river at an ideal cant in its relation to the old
home to many bridges. Many location for observing the railway tracks. The internal
of these are, however, not shadow pools, and the many structural framework of the
only functional but of aesthet- brown trout found in this wa- bridge is built with arched,
ic and historical value. At the terway system. bent pieces of actual railway
east end of the park, by the On the other side of the tracks. The outside exterior
Duck Pond as well as along park, adjacent to the tennis layer of the bridge is made up
the Waterford river heading courts is a unique Pink Gran- of thousands of small. stones,
westwards towards the shad- ite Stone bridge that crosses which were collected along
ow pools, are several rustic over Southbrook River and is the railway tracks by Can-
bridges constructed out of the eastern entrance point to ning’s workers. The quaint
black spruce wood. Several the Southbrook River Trail. look of the bridge and, its his-
such beautiful bridges can be The bridge was constructed torical connection to the old
found at different locations during the late 20’s under the NL railway, which no longer
along the Waterford River supervision of its designer and exists, makes the bridge a
allowing visitors to cross the park superintendent, Alfred very popular attraction point.
river. Most notable of these, Canning and was complet- Along the Southbrook
23River Trail is a popular bridge
that crosses the river further,
and gives a spectacular view
of Captain’s Falls, usually
referred to as ‘The Capsules.’
As displayed on the plaque,
this bridge was constructed
on the Royal Bank’s 100th
anniversary of business in
Newfoundland and Labrador,
December 21st, 1995. (Eales)
The steel bridge over the
South Brook River on the
Stephanie Dunn
southern side of the Duck
Pond was part of the old Cobble Stone bridge contains the old railway tracks from the railway
Canadian National Railway that ran through the park.
line which was abandoned
in 1988. Now it is part of the
Newfoundland T’Railway
Provincial Park which is a
multi-use recreational trail
based on the old railway. It
extends 883 km or 548 miles
from St. John’s to Port aux
Basques and forms the New-
foundland section of the Trans
Canada Trail. Many park
patrons remember when the
railway staff used to throw Submitted photo
candy over the fence to the Another section of the railway that runs through the park.
children (where the railway
line extends under the Canti- at this end. The bridge was Pond and Waterford River
lever bridge). Another popular designed by Ove Arup, the and is historically significant
activity was to lay a penny structural engineer who made in being the first concrete
on the track and watch it get the construction of Australia’s bridge in Newfoundland.
flattened by the train. The Sydney Opera House possi- The vehicular bridge fur-
pedestrian overpass above the ble. (Eales) ther into the park was built
T’Railway path is an award Two of the most used in the 60’s according to plans
winning cantilever bridge – a bridges in the park are found laid out by the Van Ginkle
unique engineering design one at the eastern entrance, by report. It connects the original
where the bridge is anchored the BPF lodge and the other, parkland to the new extended
only on one end. If you walk the vehicular bridge separat- property where many of the
under the stairs closest to river ing the old and new parts of facilities such as playground,
you will see that the bridge the park. The former, crosses pool, fountain pond etc, are
does not touch the ground the joining point of Duck found.
24Fences & Benches
Submitted Photo
Rustic Benches in the Park.
Old rustic style fences in 1949 (visible from the long way back then. They
and benches can be seen in Capital Cities monument were all made freehand by
various locations within the and the north side of the craftsmen working for the
park. Two good examples paved road leading up to park. Two men who have
include: The park’s bound- the Bungalow). Historical worked in the park for
ary fence along Waterford photos show that all the more than 30 years, Tim
Bridge Road between the benches, fences and bridges Raymond and Gerry Por-
Conservatory and the West- in the park were once con- ter, remember when most
ern entrance and the bench- structed with this old rustic of their time at work was
es under the Purple Beech style. Park Superintendents spent building and main-
tree planted by the Gov- used to go to great lengths taining these structures.
ernor General of Canada, to source the young spruce Eventually most of them
His Excellency Viscount needed and even had it were replaced with more
Alexander of Tunis, on his shipped all the way from safety conscious materials
first visit to Newfoundland central Newfoundland, a like steel. (Eales)
25Sport/Leisurely Facilities
From its first days, the ities were introduced in the original area, specifically the
park has offered great walk- park, many of which con- old Squires' property – ‘Mid-
ing/hiking trails, boating on tinue to be a major draw to stream’ – has allowed for the
the pond, open fields and the park by the physically development of more trails
lawns for playing etc. Over active. The physical expan- and fields and other recrea-
the years several sport facil- sion of the park beyond its tional facilities.
Old Swimming Pool
In the 1920’s a section
of the eastern side of South-
brook River by the Stone
Bridge was dammed to
make a ‘natural-like’ swim-
ming pool. This Swimming
Pool was considered by
many of that generation to
be the main attraction of the
park for family and social
outings and had served the
city for over 40 years. The
narratives that can be drawn
from old stories and mem-
ories about the pool are
almost endless and appear
to be an integral part of St. Archived photo
John’s folklore. Enjoying the old swimming pool on a hot summer day.
Archived Photo
Locals swimming near the old swimming hole in Bowring Park.
26Tennis Court
Also built in the 20’s
were several grass ten-
nis courts that were very
successful in drawing a
good crowd. The demand
was so overwhelming
that new hard courts were
added during the 40’s.
These courts are presently
managed and operated by
the City of St. Johns who
offers a wide range of
training programs for kids Stephanie Dunn
and adults at all levels. Several tennis courts located just off the trails of Bowing Park.
Pool/Skate Park/Playground
Stephanie Dunn
The Skate Park.
The 1960’s saw great Since its construction the playground that has been
development in the Mid- pool has become one of popular with kids since the
stream area of the park. the most popular summer 60’s, when it replaced the
The original pool on South attractions in St. John’s. older original playground,
Brook River had closed Adjacent to the pool is which was by the Tennis
due to water-contamina- a Skate Park that is very courts. Over the years the
tion concerns and a new popular with many of St. playground has undergone
modern pool was built just John’s youth. Just slightly several reconstruction pro-
past the vehicular bridge west of the pool and east jects. The most recent in
west of the bungalow. of the Fountain Pond, is a May, 2009.
27Bob Whelan Field
Heading slightly west
of the pool, in front of the
playground, is a gorgeous
lush green field - Bob
Whelan Field – which has
become a popular location,
for picnics, kids playing
football or Frisbee, reading,
relaxing etc. Another attrac-
tion for summer physical
activity is the Lawn Bowl-
ing Green found at a small
field adjacent to the main
western entrance gate on Submitted Photo
Squires Ave. The sign to Bob Whelan’s Field.
Sloping Field
During winters the large
green sloping valley space
below the vehicular bridge,
as seen below, is a very
popular spot for toboggan-
ing and sledding. During
summer and fall months
this is a very popular area
for picnics, Frisbee, and
sunbathing. Through strong
commitment from the City Stephanie Dunn
of St. John’s and the BPF, The sloping field is beautiful for relaxing the summer and for tobogging in
the park has expanded not the winter.
only in size but in the con-
the baseball field, present McNab Lane in 2003. In
struction and upkeep of
location of Bob Whalen relating his fond memories
several leisurely-resources.
Field and the old soccer of the park, University Phys
Much work has already
pitch, which was torn down Ed professor, Basil Kava-
gone and, is still going on,
and replaced by the cur- nagh has stated the while
in the development of the
rent Lawn Bowling facility. much work has gone into
Midstream area of the park.
However, a newer and more improving the sports/recre-
It is important to note that
modern soccer field – The ation aspect, the park still
some community members
Jamie Morry Soccer Field has a huge untapped poten-
do however lament the loss
– was built at the western tial for much larger array of
of two sport facilities that
entrance of the park by sport facilities.
were popular in the past;
28Cabot Theatre
Located on land where Cabot 500 celebrations in butions. It was officially
Sir Richard Squires and his St. John’s and it respectful- declared open in June 24,
family used to garden and ly bears the title, commem- 2000 and has hosted sever-
grow vegetables, is now a orating the 500th anni- al theatrical performances,
small, quaint picturesque versary of John Cabot’s most notable of which is
yet very functional Amphi- magnificent discovery. The the very successful ‘Shake-
theatre. (O’Neil). Its loca- project of erecting the am- speare by the Sea Festival.’
tion is immediately south phitheatre was made possi-
of the Fountain Pond. The ble via the help of several
amphitheatre construction corporate, municipal and
began in 1997 during the community-based contri-
Stephanie Dunn
The Cabot 500 theatre, home to many plays and events.
Stephanie Dunn
Many gathered to celebrate Bowring Park’s Centenary in July 2014.
29aerial maps
Google Earth
Aerial Satellite View of Bowring Park 2016
30References/sources
I) Jennifer O’Brien, Bowring Park, The History and Restoration, 2004/2007
II) Basil Kavanagh, The Historical Research of Bowring Park, March 1980
III) Doug Crane (Research Document(untitled), 1995)
IV) Jane Eales (Bowring Park Foundation Researcher) 2009
V) Ed Versteeg, Rudolph H. K. Cochius and the Creation of Bowring Park: A Preliminary
Exploration (October, 2004).
VI) Paul O’Neill, The Oldest City: The Story of St. John’s, Newfoundland. Boulder
Publications, 2003.
VII) Peter Bowring, A Thicket of Business, Memoir Club, 2007.
VIII) Assorted Documents; St. John’s City Archives / Provincial Archives.
IX) Assorted Documents; Center for Newfoundland Studies/Periodicals, Memorial
University of Newfoundland.
Interviews
A) Dr. Philip Hiscock, Memorial University of Newfoundland, Department of Folklore.
B) Dr. Basil Kavanagh, Memorial University of Newfoundland, School of Physical
Education and Athletics.
C) Dr. Arn Keeling, Memorial University of Newfoundland, Department of Geography.
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