Indy Parks Throughout the Years

Online Exhibitions

November 5 - 19

Main Exhibition

Celebrate Indianapolis’s Bicentennial by sharing in well-known, quirky, and even difficult stories connected to Indy Parks through an exhibit of historical narratives and images. Learn more about how our greenspaces have created a space for civic pride, community, and culture across Indianapolis for over 140 years. Reflect on the future of Indy Parks as we continue to create accessible, equitable, and inclusive experiences for all audiences in our public spaces. You’re sure to find out something new about your favorite park in this exhibit, or learn about a park you’ve never visited before!

Click here to view the exhibition! For the best viewing experience, please view the exhibit on a computer.

For activities, our sources, and more; click here.

As part of our involvement in the Spirit & Place Festival, we hosted a First Friday Speaker Program. We're especially thankful to our five panelists: Glory-June Greiff, Jordan Ryan, Mark Bowell, Michelle Salinas, and Don Colvin, for the information they shared with us. View the recording and visit spiritandplace.org to see what other events are being hosted during the festival!

exhibit

Exhibition

Children's Playground, Brookside Park, Indianapolis, Indiana, circa 1905

First public swimming pool, Delaware and South streets, 1912

Man at Garfield Park, Indianapolis, Indiana, circa 1950

Garfield Park, Indianapolis, Indiana, circa 1920

Portrait of a young woman at Garfield Park, Indianapolis, Indiana, circa 1940

Maisoll family at Garfield Park, Indianapolis, Indiana, circa 1920

Garfield Park Community House in Indianapolis

Lora Meyer (1910-2013) working at Garfield Park, Indianapolis, Indiana, 1928

Garfield Park, Shelter House, interior, 1922

Man at Garfield Park, Indianapolis, Indiana, 1919