Faversham Recreation Ground

Faversham Recreation Ground. The Story of the Recreation Ground from 1860. In 1859, the Trustees of Public Charities of Faversham acquired 20 acres of meadowland on the edge of the town for public recreation ground. Development progressed, with the construction of a lodge designed by Kent architect Jo M. Hooker and planting and landscaping by William Masters, proprietor of the Exotic Nursery, Canterbury. Tree-lined avenues and woodlands were laid out around the periphery of the site, and the central area of grassland was fenced and leased for grazing by sheep that were penned or removed when this space was required for sport or other activities., A grand opening ceremony was held on Wednesday, 22 August 1860. Streets were decorated and accompanied by the Royal Marine Band, a procession of dignitaries, members of local institutions and 1,300 children made its way from the centre of town to the lodge. Following speeches, Faversham Recreation Ground was declared open to the delight of crowds. To mark the occasion a large silk flag of the arms of the borough, commissioned by ladies of Faversham, was raised., The Rec was initially managed by the Trustees, who employed a gardener who resided in the lodge with his family. By the 1880s, both a gardener and a special constable were employed, the latter tasked with ensuring that park regulations were observed. Towards the end of the nineteenth century management was transferred to Faversham Council and more recently to Swale Borough Council., Today, sheep no longer graze the Rec and park maintenance is undertaken by contract gardeners. The Recreation Ground remains a focal point for community and is an important heritage site, retaining much of its Victorian layout and character.