Name:
WILLIAM SCHWENGER PARK
Location: surrounded by Upper Paradise Rd. and Ottaviano Dr. - Ward 8
Survey Description: Concession 8, part of lot 19, part of Lot 20, Barton Township, City of Hamilton, Reference Plan 62R10593, parts 1, 2, 8, and 12
Size: 10.73 hectares (26.50 acres)
Features: outdoor ice rink (some years), multi-purpose court, playground, benches, picnic tables, walkway
History
A native Hamiltonian Judge William Schwenger was born in 1892 and lived until 1962. He began his law career in 1913 and was named King's Council in 1934. The same year, he was elected to the Ontario Legislature where he acted as deputy speaker of the House. Shortly after leaving politics in 1938, he was appointed Junior County Judge of Wentworth. In 1949, he was appointed Senior County Judge. He carried out this position until his death. Schwenger was also chairman of the Parks Board. He served on the 
Board from 1951 until 1956. During this time, he helped the Board to acquire and develop Gage Park and the Royal Botanical Gardens. His primary interest was the preservation and beautification of Hamilton's parks.
On May 26, 1992, approval was granted for a play structure project for the site. In 1993, the final phase of the park's development was completed, according to the plans approved by the neighborhood.
References:
1. Clipping File. Hamilton - Parks - Schwenger. Special Collections, HPL.
2. Corporation of the City of Hamilton, Department of Public Works and Traffic, Parks Division, Park Development Section. Parks Master Plan database, 1996.
