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The information in this article is presented by the personal injury attorneys in North Side, New York at Banville Law. Located in the town of North Side in Mount Vernon, New York, is Willson's Woods Park. The oldest park in Westchester County. The twenty-three-acre stretch of land is neighbored on the east by the Hutchinson River Parkway and Pelham Lake. Residents from neighboring cities frequent the park still today.
In response to multiple drownings at the Pelham Reservoir, the County of Westchester acquired Willson's Woods in 1924. Their plans to develop the land into a community park would begin in 1927. The land, named after its former owner Charles Hill Willson, would become the home to the half-million-dollar swimming pool that served both Mount Vernon and Pelham residents. Willson was the founder of the Willson & Adams Lumber Co.
Tragedy would unfold on the July Fourth opening day of the park. It is unclear why, but a 19-year-old would be found unconscious in the pool during the bustle of the celebration. Despite all efforts, the lifeguards could not revive the young man. This devastation would not mar the continued success of the park.
The main attraction at Willson's Woods Park is the million-gallon swimming pool. This pool measuring 235 feet in length by 135 feet in width was designed with all the upgraded security features. For night swimming, designers installed electric lighting along the base of the diving pool. Lights were added to the bottom of the pool in order to represent changes in depth that go from one foot to ten. Accommodations provided occupancy for up to fifteen hundred people. The two-story Tudor Revival-style bathhouse has been preserved to retain the historic design and architecture. In the top story, over 100 guests can fit into the DeMatteo Terrace Pavillion.
A recent addition to the park is Willson's Wave, which features a favored wave pool offering three-foot waves. In addition to the two 18 foot slides, there is an interactive water playground, called Aqua Playground, with 57 different spray heads.
All guests require either an ID showing residency or the purchase of a day pass. Other amenities guest can enjoy in their park entry include:
At any given time, park visitors can witness some of the 50 species of birds during their visits. The most common being Mallards, but Canada Geese are often seen frequenting the area. Visitors can witness flocks of over 200 flying around. With the many nature trails and outdoor spaces, enjoying the natural wood setting of the design and environment has been noted as the most attractive places within Westchester County.
Also See: The History of Mount Vernon, NY
If you or someone you love has been involved in an accident, and you may want to contact our experienced North Side, New York, personal injury attorneys for a free consultation. We can help you seek financial compensation to help pay for medical expenses, lost wages, and more. Call us today.
Banville Law
11 W Prospect Ave #37,
Mt Vernon, NY 10550, USA
(914) 825-4117
