Chautauqua Park

Chautauqua Park

History

The original 5.92 acres of park property was dedicated to the City by the Sioux City and St. Paul Railroad Company in October 1875 in the plat of Park Addition. Chautauqua Park was the City’s first park and was originally referred to as “Lake Park.” At the turn of the century and into the 1930s, it became a stop on the national Chautauqua circuit. The local Chautauqua society was formed by Professor C. H. Wame. Residents built a wooden pavilion overlooking Lake Okabena to host theatre entertainment, lectures, musical events, and comedy productions. The Chautauqua program was an annual summer event that ended in 1931, with evangelist Billy Sunday as the last attraction.

Additions to the park were made in April 1940 when Lot 1, Block 4 of Park Addition was acquired from P. C. Heimark for $900.00, and the east 80 feet of Lot 2, Block 4, Park Addition was acquired from George Luffey for $9,000.00. The park was officially named Chautauqua Park by the City Council in January 1950.

Comments

• The park is a community park and is accessible, located on the shores of Lake Okabena.
• Modern restrooms and an abundance of green space.
• Fishing dock located within the park.
• Enclosed and open shelters with electricity and water. The enclosed shelter also has natural gas. To rent the enclosed shelter, call (507) 666-5028.
• Weekly City band concerts are held on Wednesday evenings from approximately mid-June through mid-July at 7:00 p.m. in the bandshell. Seating is available.
• Bandshell available for rent for weddings, concerts, and church services.
• On-street parking is available surrounding the park.

Additional information

Concession permits

2

Accessible parking spaces

2

Off-street parking spaces

35

On-street parking spaces

100

Size

7.40 acres

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