“Orchard” might not be the first word that springs to mind when you think of a playfield. Yet, here at Meadowbrook Playfield, past and present intertwine. This isn’t just another park. Meadowbrook Playfield has a history rooted in agriculture and community.
Once, this land belonged to the Fischer family. The Fischers ran a farm here. It included barns, cows, chickens, horses, berry gardens and several crops. They sold the property in the 1920s. For a time, it was a polo field and a golf driving range. Now, it is Meadowbrook Playfield.
Today, Meadowbrook Playfield is a recreational hub. It spans 18 acres. It is adjacent to Nathan Hale High School. The park includes a swimming pool and a community center. These offer various activities for all ages.
Start your visit at the southwest corner of the park. It’s a quieter spot. From there, you get great views of the playfield. Follow the path down towards the main area. You will soon see the tennis courts. Beyond them lie baseball and softball fields.
On the far end of Meadowbrook Playfield, a large play area awaits children. It can get crowded on sunny days. Many kids enjoy the play equipment. Some discover the stream that runs through the park. It divides Meadowbrook Playfield from the high school.
However, the fruit trees tell another story. Meadowbrook Playfield boasts an edible hedge. It includes filberts, chestnuts, quince, berries, figs, peaches, pears, nectarines and apricots. You can find this along the southern border. The north orchard features cherries, crabapples, pears, apples, apricots, plums, peaches and quince. There are even plans for a fig orchard.
Thornton Creek flows nearby. Restoration efforts have revitalized the area. Notably, the confluence of the north and south forks is near the Meadowbrook fields. This environmental restoration is used for science classes. The Community Center faces the restored Meadowbrook Pond and wetland. It is across 35th Avenue in Matthews Beach neighborhood.
So, as you wander through Meadowbrook Playfield, remember its story. It began as a farm. It evolved into a recreational space. It continues to be a place where nature and community thrive. The spirit of the Fischer family farm lives on in the fruit trees.