Ever wondered how a playground could honor a signer of the Declaration of Independence? Bartlett Playground does just that. Both this playground and Bartlett Street are named for Josiah Bartlett. He was a signer of the Declaration of Independence. He also became the first Governor of New Hampshire.
Josiah Bartlett was born in Massachusetts. He began studying medicine at 16. At 21, he established his practice in New Hampshire. Bartlett quickly gained a reputation. People saw him as a trustworthy physician. He was also a gentleman. His duties were discharged with promptness and fidelity.
Bartlett entered public office in 1765. He was elected to the legislature of New Hampshire. He opposed the royal governor’s views. In 1774, the governor dismissed Bartlett. He lost his positions as justice of the peace. He was also removed from his militia command.
In 1775, Bartlett represented New Hampshire at the Continental Congress. He was re-elected in 1776. The Congress moved to Philadelphia. Bartlett was the first to vote for the resolution for a declaration of independence. He remained New Hampshire’s representative. He spent most of his time working for his state’s interests.
Bartlett had no legal training. Yet, he became chief justice in the Court of Common Pleas in 1779. From 1788 to 1790, he was chief justice of the Supreme Court of New Hampshire. He served in the convention for the ratification of the Constitution in 1788. He was elected as a Senator in 1789. He declined the position. In 1791, he was elected President of New Hampshire. He became its first Governor in 1792. Bartlett retired from public service in 1794. He died in 1795 at the age of 66.
New York City acquired this land in 1956. It was to be jointly operated by Parks and the Board of Education. The playground opened on June 18, 1960. It was then known as P.S. 168 Playground. It featured handball courts and basketball courts. There were game tables and jungle gyms. A shower basin and slides completed the picture.
In 1980, the Board of Education decided P.S. 168 was no longer needed. The Yeshiva school system in Brooklyn now owns and operates the P.S. 168 site. In 1985, Parks renamed the parkland Bartlett Playground.
Today, Bartlett Playground has much to offer. You will find basketball and handball courts here. There is play equipment with safety surfacing. A comfort station provides necessary facilities. Spray showers offer relief on hot days. Drinking fountains, benches, and picnic tables are available.
Bartlett Playground serves two purposes. It is a memorial to Josiah Bartlett, a devoted patriot. It is also a place of rest and recreation for all ages. This playground stands as a testament to both history and community. It is a vibrant space where children can play and families can gather. Remember Josiah Bartlett as you enjoy this space. He was an ordinary man who achieved greatness.