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In 1922 the city of Janesville acquired a tract of beautiful natural land along the Rock River that would become Riverside Park, the city’s first regional park.
In the next 20 years Riverside Park was the focus of a great deal of planning, development and investment for the city. Being the city’s first regional park, it was the city’s main center for recreation and festivities. When the park was purchased there already was a dance hall and pavilion where the south pavilion sits. In that era there were many community picnics and gatherings in the park. The Bower city band along with others frequently played into the evening while people danced and socialized. The area in front of the south pavilion was a bathing beach for swimmers. The north end was a large open area that was once a corn field. It was planned to be used as a huge play field with base ball diamonds.
In 1925-1927, Gravel roads were opened into the park and the first 6 holes for the golf course were constructed. Over 500 trees were planted.
In 1927 a comfort station was built at the north end of the park in addition to three new tennis courts. Also over 1,000 flowering shrubs were planted along the river and throughout the picnic areas.
In 1928 water services and playground equipment were added. A picnic pavilion constructed from split face field stone and the bathroom were built at the north end. George S. Parker also offered $ 10,000 to build a zoo in the park.
In 1930 with the funds of $ 2,280, given by the All Souls Unitarian Society, the north and south entrance gates were constructed. Five new tennis courts with four shelters were also constructed.
In 1931 The old dance hall pavilion was torn down and the new south pavilion was built. Work was started on the river wall.
In 1937 the wadding pool was built and the two artesian wells were drilled. The north well was used to fill the pool and the south was used for drinking water. There was much work done to finish the pool before the 1937 4th of July celebration when thousands came to the park.
Work on the boat landing started in 1938. This year also saw the construction of shuffleboard courts and the north concession stand. The concession stand was built from the limestone cliff at the north end of the park.
In 1939 a 65 ft. boat named the “Silver Queen” was built and operated by Elmer Ullius. The boat was a platform outfitted with a concession stand and a juke box and could carry 150 people. He charged 10-25cents per ride. The Silver Queen operated between 1939 and 1949. Many people have fond memories of the boat and late night dancing parties and cruises up the river.
The golf course expanded to 18 holes in 1941 at the cost of $55,000. In 1944 a hiking path was constructed
(Possibly Devil’s Staircase)
The park also had a small steam train which was operated by Riverside and Great Northern Scenic railroad
The train was made by Elmer Sandley and his son Norman at their shop on Delavan drive. The train ran from 1949 to 1953 and ran along the tracks that are now Kiwanis bike trail. The train is presently in Wisconsin Dells.
During the 1950's the ball field was constructed at the north end of the park. Lights were installed in 1967.
There are newer developments to the park but this ends the park’s first 50 years when there was a flourish of activity. Much focus and development was put into the park. The park was loved and used by the community. It was a beautiful place to socialize and relax.
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