BY GLENDA WINDERS
Nothing says summer like a visit to a local city park, and the Winamac Town Park in Pulaski County offers everything you expect from such an outing — along with a whole lot more. The park covers 35-plus waterfront acres on a natural peninsula in a bend of the Tippecanoe River, which legend has it was once a Potawatomi campground.
A stroll through the park will reveal several art pieces, beginning with the graceful gateway entrance designed by local sculptor Russell Rearick in 1934. Beyond that you’ll find baseball and softball fields as well as basketball, volleyball and tennis/pickleball courts. Playground equipment will keep the kids entertained, and families can gather in shelters for reunions and picnics or take a hike on the walking trail. If you bring your boat, plan to launch it right here at the DNR public boat launch.
The park is home to the Veterans Memorial Swinging Bridge, a footbridge that links the town with the park and honors veterans who have served in all wars. The bridge was erected following World War I in 1923, and this year celebrates its 100th year with repairs, fresh paint and the installation of colored lights. A dedication and anniversary celebration will be held July 3.
The park also hosts the 4-H Fair during the last week in June. The third weekend in July will find the Northern Indiana Power From the Past Show in full swing. Here you can take part in displays of antique farm equipment, horse-and-buggy rides, a flea market, sawmill, quilt show, cross-cut sawing competition, food vendors, music, dancing and the list goes on. Young children can compete in games such a water-balloon toss, sack race and tug-of-war as well as a kiddie-pedal tractor pull.
Looking to recall memories of a simpler time while you make new ones and have some family-friendly fun? This is the place to be.
For more information visit: tourism.pulaskionline.org
