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| Centrepiece of the Waterfront |
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| The land for this park was originally part of a parcel granted to the Mohawk leader Joseph Brant, in recognition of his service to The British Crown during the American Revolution. James Gage became the first European owner of the park area in 1810.
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| During the 19th century and into the 20th, Lakeshore Road was immediately adjacent to Lake Ontario. There was no protection from storms, and waves frequently washed over the road, threatening nearby property. In 1939 the federal government stepped in and built a seawall. That same year, the Burlington Horticultural Society became involved in cleaning up the shoreline just west of the foot of Brant Street. That land, known as Lakeside Park, was renamed Spencer Smith Park in honor of Spencer Smith - a former president of the society. In 1965 construction was begun on Confederation Terrace and Spencer Smith Park as a Centennial Project for the City of Burlington. In recent years, Spencer Smith Park has been redeveloped with community input by the Waterfront Team to become the recreational centre of our waterfront trail. The wide promenade allows a magnificent view of the lake, beach and Skyway Bridge while sitting on the breakwall, walking, cycling or roller blading. |
In memory of Spencer Smith. Member of Burlington Horticultural Society 1919-1955
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The park boasts: Several performance areas, historic monuments, children's playground, Japanese Garden and expansive lawns for leisure activities.
For visitors to the area, a Tourist Information Centre operated by Tourism Burlington is located on 414 Locust Street, just off Lakeshore Road. Spencer Smith is a major attraction for both local residents and tourists, as it is in the heart of downtown and is the venue for major community events along the waterfront such as the Sound of Music Festival, Children's Festival and Rotary Ribfest.
Downtown Waterfront
In August, 2003 City Council approved the Implementation plan, a major step towards realizing Burlington's dream of creating a unique and vibrant lakefront park. Included in the plan are: an amphitheatre seating 2,200 people, pond for skating and model boating, new playground, a 160 metre pier, marina, performance plaza and more. For more information on this project check the City of Burlington website.
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