A playground dedicated to a World War I hero. That’s Bill Brown Playground. Right here in Brooklyn.
Bill Brown Playground isn’t just swings and slides. It’s a memorial. A tribute to William A Brown. He served in the 28th Army Division. He died in France in 1918. His sacrifice is honored here. In this very spot. Just a few blocks from where he once lived. On Voorhies Avenue.
Bill Brown gave his all for his country. This playground reminds us of that. The park is a place for children to play. It’s also a place to remember a brave soldier. The playground opened in 1935. It was a New Deal project. The Works Progress Administration was involved. They provided the labor and materials.
In 1986 the playground was renovated. Seven hundred and eighty-five thousand dollars were spent on improvements. New equipment was installed. Bocce courts were added. Benches and picnic tables were provided. Even new trees were planted. Many Norway maples provide shade today.
Children from nearby schools enjoy Bill Brown Playground. They come from P S 254 and P S 206. The Dag Hammarskjold School children also play here. This park truly is a community hub. A place of joy and remembrance. A reminder of the sacrifices made for our freedom. And a place for kids to run and play. A place where the past and the present meet. At Bill Brown Playground.