What’s in a name? At Bunny Friend Playground, there’s a poignant story. This playground isn’t just a place for kids to play. It’s a testament to a mother’s love and a community’s generosity.
Bunny Friend Playground is named after Henry “Bunny” Friend. Bunny, sadly, passed away at the young age of 18. His mother, Ida Weis Friend, a prominent figure in New Orleans, decided to honor his memory. She donated $4,000 to create a playground in his name. This generous act sparked a wave of community support, and the fund grew to over $10,000. Ida also gifted a parcel of land to the city between Gallier and Desire streets, the perfect spot for Bunny Friend Playground.
The playground’s impact on the neighborhood was so profound that two streets bordering it were renamed North Bunny Friend and South Bunny Friend. A testament to a mother’s love, a community’s generosity, and a young life commemorated in swings and laughter. That’s the story of Bunny Friend Playground.