About

A Rich History

In 1838, Lily Lake, the oldest public water supply in British North America, embarked on water supply efforts for the city, marking the inauguration of the first fire hydrant in Market Square. By 1892, locals had initiated plans for a Public Gardens.

The year 1893 saw the formation of the Saint John Horticultural Association (SJHA), dedicated to creating public gardens and parks, and beautifying King’s and Queen Square in its inaugural year. 

1894 marked a significant milestone as Mr. William Pugsley sold two hundred acres on Lily Lake's eastern side to SJHA, officially establishing Rockwood Park. The following year, SJHA acquired the Fitzgerald Estate in 1895, including two-thirds of Lily Lake, and received a donation of one hundred and thirty acres from Mr. Douglas Hazen. By 1899, the acquisition of Lily Lake was completed, and the development of a zoological garden began in the present-day campground area. 

In 1906, the Fisher Lakes project begins maintenance of Lily Lake's falls during dry summers, with the area being completed by 1907 when the Frank White Amusement Centre opened at today's campground. Tragedy struck in 1914 when the original Lily Lake Pavilion burned down, but the park continued to evolve. 

In 1921, a granite monument in the Public Gardens was erected by the Rockwood Comfort Club in memory of seven men who died in the war. Five years later, Lily Lake hosted the World Speed Skating Championships in 1926 with Charles Gorman claiming the World Speed Skating Title. In 1936, the Drury Family donated 450 acres, known as the Drury Grant, expanding the park's footprint. 

The mid-20th century saw the reconstruction of the Lily Lake Pavilion in 1953 and the development of the Rockwood Park Campground on the old zoological grounds in 1958. By 1967, SJHA had deeded all land to the city for the Centennial Project, leading to enhanced park facilities and the establishment of the Rockwood Park Advisory Board with both SJHA members and city representatives overseeing the operation of the park. 

Recognition for the park's excellence came in 1971 when Rockwood Park and the City of Saint John received the Vincent Massey Award for Urban Excellence.  In 1982, the American Water Works Association (AWWA) honored Lily Lake with the Water Landmark Award. The Interpretation Centre opened its doors in 1992, resembling the first Lily Lake Pavilion, while the city took over Lily Lake ice care from the Horticultural Association in 1993.

Today, the Saint John Horticultural Association only manages the Rockwood Park Campground and Public Gardens. This history reflects the transformation of Rockwood Park into a diverse recreational area with a rich natural and cultural heritage.