“Wow, this place has seen a lot!” The Fonde Recreation Center is a hub of activity and history. This isn’t just any building. It’s a place where Houstonians have gathered for decades.
Let’s dive into the story of the Fonde Recreation Center. It was built in 1960. The architectural firm Mackie and Kamrath designed it. They created a space where people could come together. The center sits near downtown on Memorial Drive. It quickly became a popular spot. People came to test their skills on the courts and in the gym. Major renovations took place in 1988, updating the facilities.
But the story doesn’t start with the building itself. It begins with a remarkable woman named Corinne Fonde. Born in 1883, she dedicated her life to improving the lives of others. She believed in the power of recreation. Fonde saw it as a way to build citizenship and foster social interaction. Recreation, in her view, could fill leisure time in a healthy way and prevent crime.
In 1916, Fonde arrived in Houston. She worked for the Houston Settlement Association. This organization helped immigrant families in the Second Ward. They faced many challenges like crowded living and language barriers. Fonde supervised playground activities, the health clinic, and educational programs. She even started the city’s first free kindergarten.
Her success at Rusk Settlement led to a big opportunity. In 1919, Houston created the Department of Recreation. Corinne Fonde became its first director. Initially, she was the only employee. By 1925, she had a staff of 40. Fonde created programs for children, youth, and adults. She partnered with public schools to use their playgrounds in the summer. She also organized city-wide athletic teams and encouraged businesses to sponsor them. Craft classes, pet shows, and kite-flying contests were among the popular activities.
Fonde’s department also offered musical and drama programs. She transformed an old incinerator into a small theater for community players. She constantly sought new programs and funding. Her goal was to provide healthy and enjoyable leisure activities for Houstonians. In 1943, the Recreation Department merged with the Parks Department. Fonde became assistant director. She stayed in that role until she retired in 1946.
Corinne Fonde also played a key role in the Girl Scouts. In 1921, she helped organize troops in Houston. By 1922, Houston became the third city in Texas to receive a Scout charter. Fonde and Frances Law oversaw the troops until the San Jacinto Council formed. Their portraits hang in the council headquarters.
Another lasting tradition started with Fonde. In 1919, she placed a lighted Christmas tree downtown near the Victory Flag Pole. This honored Houston’s World War I soldiers. The tree lighting became an annual event. In 1960, it found a permanent home at City Hall. It marks the official start of Houston’s holiday season.
Corinne Fonde died in 1950. The city established Fonde Park in her honor. Later, Fonde Recreation Center was built. It stands as a testament to her dedication and vision. Today, the Fonde Recreation Center continues to serve Houstonians. It’s a place where people can exercise, play sports, and connect with their community. It embodies Corinne Fonde’s belief in the power of recreation. This center is more than just a building. It’s a living legacy.