Charleswood has abundant parks, green space

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This article was published 21/05/2019 (2624 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Charleswood is a unique community bordered by the Perimeter Highway, Assiniboine River, Assiniboine Forest and Wilkes Avenue and it boasts 50 parks, green spaces and sports fields.  

Some are named after athletes and others after long-time and noteworthy residents, according to Eileen MacDonald who compiled records dating back to 1976. There is a process for naming parks and the names must meet specific criteria (historic, geological, personage) and must be approved if they are to stay in the city’s inventory. In a recent presentation to the Charleswood Historical Society, MacDonald highlighted some of the local parks.  

Hewitt Park — A beautiful park off Haney Street and Eldridge Avenue, it features swings, a play structure and walking path to Ascot Bay. The park was named after Jack Hewitt, who bought up property on Vialoux Drive, near Hendon Avenue.

Beauchemin Park — This natural park can be found northeast of the junction  of Berkley Street and Roblin Boulevard (entrance off Southboine Drive). It was named after Jean Beauchemin, whose original homestead was on this property. 

Daly Gardens — Connects Barker Boulevard and Southboine Drive. It is named after Denis Daly, known for his design and community works, including helping secure funding for Eric Coy Arena.

Harte Trail — A community connector for cyclists and pedestrians from all over the city.

Marj Edey Park — A 10-acre park located at the junction of Ridgewood Avenue and Oakdale Drive, this park is named for a Manitoba golf champion who is also a member of the Manitoba Sports Hall of Fame. Edey was also known for her long-term community involvement.

Moug Park —  Described as providing a “window” on the river, this park off Lanoo Drive was named after William Moug, who settled on Berkley Street and whose family became well known in the community. William’s son Art served as mayor of Charleswood and was also an MLA.

Smithdale Park — John Smith’s land encompassed 400 acres on the north and south sides of Assiniboine River, what is now part of Assiniboine Park. His land was sold to the city for $39,903 in 1904.

Peri Green — Located at Shepton Bay, off Dale Boulevard, this park was approved in 1976. Along with picnic tables and benches, it has a cement pad for novice skate boarders.

Daniel Flood Green — Off Lanoo Drive, this park is named for the head of the family that was instrumental in establishing the first Charleswood Credit Union.

Dellwood Green Park — This nice little park in Westdale is hard to find but can be reached off the back lane of Dellwood Crescent.

Bramble Drive Park — This hidden gem is on the north side of Grant Avenue across from Charleswood Centre. 

Oscar Paulson Park — Access from Avril Lane off Haney. Paulson was in the construction business and played a significant role in early development of the community.

Chester Park — Runs along William Clement Parkway. Named after Tom Chester, who was the head professional at Charleswood Golf Course from 1932 to 1974.

Bannatyne Grove — Next to the Charleswood Care Centre on Roblin. Named after Morice Bannatyne, who served as a municipal councillor and whose family had the largest number of relations in Charleswood.

Parc Morrisette — On Jewett Bay, named after three Morrisette families that lived on McLean Street.

Eric Coy Centennial Recreation Centre — Named after Eric Coy, a lifelong area resident who was a world-class discus thrower and shot putter. In 1938, he was named the outstanding athlete in Canada.

A list of Charleswood parks can be found at www.charleswoodhistoricalsociety.ca

Donna Minkus is a community correspondent for Charleswood.

Donna Minkus
Charleswood community correspondent

Donna Minkus is a community correspondent for Charleswood.

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