Ready to explore a haven of tranquility? That’s Nibley Park in Glendale. Imagine a place where lush green trees surround you. Super green grass stretches out in every direction. This park, nestled in a quiet area, is more than just a green space. It has a story.
Nibley Park wasn’t just thrown together. It was meticulously planned by the Haddock-Nibley Company in the 1920s. This was a time when Southern California was booming. People flocked here seeking opportunity and a mild climate. Glendale experienced rapid growth. This prompted residential development in what were once rural areas.
Rossmoyne Ranch was one such area. Judge Erskine Mayo Ross purchased the ranch land in 1872. He bought it from his uncle, Captain Cameron Erskine Thom. They founded Glendale in 1887. Judge Ross was a well-known horticulturalist. He planted citrus and olive groves. Many of these original trees can still be found today.
In 1923, Haddock and Nibley bought a portion of Rossmoyne Ranch for residential development. Lon Haddock sold his interest to Alex Nibley in 1925. By 1927, most of the homes were built. Nibley envisioned a carefully planned community. He enlisted experts to design wide, flowing streets. They curved to keep the views interesting. The plan also emphasized safety. It eliminated through-streets.
Nibley Park was part of this vision. Nibley donated the land for the park. He planted live oaks for shade. He also built tennis courts for the neighborhood. Today, Nibley Park features a children’s play area. There are also picnic areas. There is even a basketball court. And, of course, those two tennis courts still stand.
The developers marketed Rossmoyne extensively. They even erected huge “Rossmoyne” signs in the hills. This mimicked the “Hollywoodland” sign. Nibley built his sales office to resemble an Egyptian temple. It became a local tourist stop.
Nibley Park is more than just a park. It’s a reminder of Glendale’s history. It stands as a testament to the vision of developers like Alex Nibley. They shaped the city we know today. So, take a stroll. Enjoy the lush greenery. Remember the story behind this special place. Nibley Park is a place where memories are made. It is a place that is easily forgiven. It is a reminder of a bygone era.