Opening of the park
Brinton Park is a public park of 32 acres in total situated on the south western approach to the town of Kidderminster in Worcestershire. Prior to 1882 it was previously part of what was then Sutton Common.
In 1883 John Brinton D.L., J.P. and Member of Parliament for Kidderminster bought 26 acres of land. He commissioned the architect J.T Meredith to devise plans for its layout as a pleasure ground for the enjoyment of the town’s residents.
The park was opened in time to commemorate Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee. It was officially opened on 1st August 1887 as a ‘Beacon Park’ to celebrate the monarch’s reign.
Further developments
The park was extended by the Town Corporation up to Sutton Road by a further 6 acres opening on 12th May 1905 as depicted in the historical plans from the Brinton Collection, held at the Museum of Carpet.
In 1890 a kiosk was burnt down and the site remained unoccupied until 1896 when a new structure was erected together with a bandstand on the adjoining site that is close to the current tennis courts location today.
A parks committee was formed and a number of additional improvements were carried out to further enhance the park.
The current park
The current park layout is mostly as it was laid out during the period 1880 to 1905, having all the attributes of a late Victorian and Edwardian park. However, over the years some important elements have been lost including the ornamental pond, rustic bridge and lodge, and much of the ornamental planting beds and only remnants survive today.
A number of historical photographs show how the park used to look including the extent of the horticultural displays that would have been magnificent including floral displays and exotic beds.
The legacy
John Brinton’s gift is a legacy which has allowed residents to enjoy free access to a public park for the benefit of healthy outdoor sport, recreation and entertainment. In presenting the park to the borough he is quoted as saying:
‘I have felt that, while enjoying myself in my own grounds, many persons had no such privilege to enjoy on their part. My anxiety has been for several years to try and ensure the benefit of a Public Park to the townspeople.’
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There's going to be lots to get involved with as the project goes on. Our community page outlines some of the different ways you can join us.
