Bowen’s dream being revitalized
Fund-raising continues, more improvements coming
WOODSTOCK — Buoyed by the response to The Legacy Campaign “150 Years and Beyond,” the Board of Trustees of Roseland Park & Golf Course announced plans to move forward with the next phase of its fund-raising effort aimed at the restoration and revitalization of the Property.
Last year the board and the Capital Campaign committee pursued its goal of $1million.
Martha Beckwith, board president said: “Thanks to the support of numerous individuals the initial phase of the campaign realized more than $900,000, which allowed the Board to move forward with many of the improvements as part of our strategic plan.”
The first step was the establishment of a new Main Entrance, the redesign and paving of roadways and development of walking paths for the safety of not only pedestrians but also runners, roller bladers, wheelchairs and bicycles. The newly designed roadway provides easier access to the Little League area and community garden.
Across Roseland Park Road, at one of the oldest golf courses in Connecticut and the U.S., significant improvements were made to the driving range. The number of tee bays was increased from six to 16 and the length of the range was expanded beyond 300 yards. On the course, the fairways were widened, a new bridge was built on the second hole, the greens restored and the stream was cleaned of debris.
The next phase will include removing overhead electric lines and poles and transferring power through recently installed underground conduits. A second coating of asphalt will be laid in the spring and the areas where roadways have been permanently removed will be landscaped with lawns and new plantings.
“These improvements and plans are all part of a concerted effort and hard work of the Board and Campaign Committee. This has been a true team effort, which I’m certain if (founder) Mr. (Henry) Bowen were still around, he would be very proud to witness,” said Campaign Chairman John Rauh.
In 2026 Roseland Park will celebrate 150 years of Henry Chandler Bowen’s dream. Opened on the 100th Anniversary of the United States of America, plans are underway to revitalize his dream and wake up the reveries of citizens who remember the Park of their youth.
For more information about Roseland Park, its history or planned events, please go to the Roseland Park website at www.roselandpark.org.
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Left: Laying conduits that will provide underground electricity. Right: First coating of asphalt to the redesigned and safer roadways. Courtesy photos.
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