SAM MANSON PARK

History

This property was given to the Parks Board by Eastlawn Cemetery on November 20, 1968 and was formerly known as Eastlawn Park.

The park was named after Sam Manson (1893 - 1954), a well-known sports figure in the city. Sports had been his consuming interest at all times in private life and it became his business pursuit. In 1923, he opened a sporting goods store and supported many children's sporting activities. His flare for action also led him into other phases of community life. He served on the Board of Control in 1931 and 1932. The former Civic Stadium (now Ivor Wynne Stadium) and Municipal Pool owe their existence indirectly to Mr. Manson. It was through his efforts, at the 1928 Olympics in Amsterdam, that Hamilton hosted the first British Empire Games (now the British Commonwealth Games) in 1930. The Stadium was enlarged for the event, and the pool was built. He managed the track team which went to England in 1934 and was the general manager of the 1936 Canadian Olympic team. He had also captained the Hamilton Tigers to their first Grey Cup win. Known as "Mr. Sport", Sam Manson's unbounding enthusiasm and energy marked him as a leading citizen in the life of Hamilton. Mr. Manson also served on the Parks Board, helping to establish the Royal Botanical Gardens. He was the grandson of Colonel Ryckman, who settled the area known as Ryckman's Corners.

The park lands were graded in 1974, and developed four years later. Playground equipment was put in around 1988, and bocce courts were installed in 1991.

In 1992, the East Hamilton Soccer Club which uses the park, provided $10,000 towards the construction of the parking lot. In 1993, a spray pad was installed, with an asphalt walkway leading to the pad, making it wheelchair accessible. Benches, trees, and an outdoor ice rink hook-up were also added at this time.