The following piece was submitted by Faith Clark, honouring the late Phyllis Henderson who donated the lands for Henderson Park in Bradford.
Now that fall is well on its way, there will be extra touches of beauty everywhere in the surroundings of Henderson Park. This lovely acreage is located north on 10 Sideroad and a short distance West on the 9th Line. It has proven to be a small treasure, and a true gift for those who have discovered and enjoyed the serenity of its playing fields, and the quietness of the watershed trails.
Families, friends and especially children have found it to be a happy gathering place during these difficult times, with picnic tables, play ground, splash pad and a tennis court.
How lovely to sit on a bleacher or a lawn chair in the warmth of a sunny day, focusing only on the restful panorama of farmers' fields. How delightful to be held in pensive moments by the playful swaying of grasses, trees, wild flowers, and to hear the lively chorus of many birds, as you travel the pebbled walking paths. These are short paths nestled in and along the watershed and pond area to the south.
Gratitude is what I feel to the Town of Bradford for its strategic planning on this property.
Sadly, Mrs. Henderson passed away March 16, 2021, but my special thanks go to her for her great generosity in gifting this land to the town. You can still see the farmhouse and silos of the farm, belonging to Phyllis and her husband Cyril, from the park. It was a dairy farm, and later they added a bed and breakfast. Folks loved to come to give their children the farm and animal experience.
I attended her commemoration ceremony a few Sundays ago, and was delighted to read an article of her life, found in Good News And Views From The Meadows of Aurora. I learned from this that she also taught piano in town. They also delighted children with their animals, and provided hay rides for school and church groups. They had a real heart for the Town of Bradford.
A legacy of kindness and generosity has been passed down to the people of Bradford. Our best way to say thank you is to make it also a place of kindness, care for it, and treasure the gift.
Faith Clark, Bradford
