Did Mary Cunningham envision this? Standing here at Cunningham Park you see the legacy of a generous woman. Mary Cunningham a Milton resident left a considerable fortune. Her will stipulated that her wealth should benefit the town’s inhabitants. This resulted in the creation of this beautiful park.
Cunningham Park opened in 1905. It was more than just open space. It included tennis courts bowling alleys and even a gym. Imagine the activities that took place within these walls. Children played on the grounds. Adults enjoyed recreation. The park fulfilled Mary’s vision of providing open space for public enjoyment.
The park has a rich history. It has seen many changes over the years. The original swimming pond was rebuilt in the 1960s. It was originally spring-fed with a sand bottom. There were high and low diving boards. This pond is now named after Bill Caldwell. He served as Park Manager for almost 50 years. He was beloved by many. The old gymnasium was torn down in 1968. The last event held there was his wake.
In 1926 the park trustees donated land for a school. Collicot School opened in 1929. Land for Cunningham Junior High followed in 1934. The park’s facilities changed. But its core purpose remained constant. It continued to serve as a recreational space for the Milton community. In 2022 a tree was planted in honor of John Cronin. A Milton family donated the tree. They chose to remain anonymous. Their generosity is a continuation of the spirit that founded Cunningham Park.
Today Cunningham Park offers baseball diamonds multi-purpose fields a playground a tennis court and a town pool. It’s a place where generations have made memories. It stands as a testament to the generosity of Mary Cunningham. Her legacy lives on. It is a place where people can relax play and appreciate the beauty of nature. It lives on in the smiles of children playing in the playground. It lives on in the laughter of families enjoying a picnic. It is a place where Milton’s history and future intertwine.