Independence Park (Charlotte, North Carolina)
Independence Park is split into two sections by Hawthorne Lane. Both sections lie below street level which gives the park a secluded and tranquil atmosphere, despite the fact that the site commands excellent views of the Charlotte skyline. The lower park contains a winding path, a rose garden, large, leafy trees, a reflecting pond, and a gazebo. The upper park contains more trails, a playground, several athletic fields, and the 300 seat Independence Park Stadium.
Independence Park is the site in Charlotte of the Afro-Caribbean themed Juneteenth Festival of the Carolinas on June 19 of each year.
Arhelger Memorial
In June 1931 a group of Girl Scouts from Charlotte was visiting Glen Burney Falls in Blowing Rock, North Carolina. One girl fell into the falls, and 21-year-old counselor Lillian Arhelger lost her life when she jumped in to save her. A memorial to the fallen hero was erected, and today the bronze and stone Lillian Arhelger Memorial, with its reflecting pool, is a prominent feature in the upper half of Independence Park.
References
- ^ Historic Landmarks Commission: Survey and Research Report on Independence Park
- ^ "Charlotte's first public park reopens soon after a nearly $6 million makeover". August 24, 2022.
- ^ Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation: Independence Park
- ^ Welcome to Juneteenth Festival of the Carolinas
- ^ Story and photos of the Arhelger Memorial