Magnus Park
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West Lake Street |
Magnus Park began as a State Park on August 3, 1922. The park land was a gift to the city from Joseph A. Magnus of Cincinnati, Ohio, who vacationed at Crooked Lake. He purchased the property from Mrs. Amy Seavey, who had a cottage there. The camp was located within the city limits and "comprised a number of acres" according to the description in the newspaper. The original entrance was on Charlevoix Avenue. When the park opened, camping was free. They had several amenities, such as a bathing pavilion, comfort stations, and camp kitchens with stoves, water, and lights.
At the grand opening celebration on Sunday, September 3, 1922 the Reverend William J. Datson, pastor of the Emmanuel Episcopal church gave the address and the City Band played. Other speakers included Joseph Magnus, who donated the land, and John L.A. Galster, mayor of Petoskey. The celebration was organized by the Petoskey Federation of Women's Clubs. Mrs. A.R. Clark was the chairman of the day. Each club member was asked to decorate their automobile to represent the club to which they belonged. The American Legion performed the flag raising ceremony and the City Band played the "Star Spangled Banner."
At the grand opening celebration on Sunday, September 3, 1922 the Reverend William J. Datson, pastor of the Emmanuel Episcopal church gave the address and the City Band played. Other speakers included Joseph Magnus, who donated the land, and John L.A. Galster, mayor of Petoskey. The celebration was organized by the Petoskey Federation of Women's Clubs. Mrs. A.R. Clark was the chairman of the day. Each club member was asked to decorate their automobile to represent the club to which they belonged. The American Legion performed the flag raising ceremony and the City Band played the "Star Spangled Banner."
Magnus Park by Hugh Phetteplace
In the third ward of our city,
That overlooks the bay,
There lies a strip of woodland
Where children romp and play
At eventide the travelers
Have campfires burning bright
And rest with ease among the trees
Their wearly limbs at night.
And strangers from a foreign clime
As thru our land they roam,
Fall into line when they see the sign
"Come make yourselves at home."
All gaze with pride on the archway
When the twinkling lights at dark
Reveal the name of Magnus
The donor of our park.
In the third ward of our city,
That overlooks the bay,
There lies a strip of woodland
Where children romp and play
At eventide the travelers
Have campfires burning bright
And rest with ease among the trees
Their wearly limbs at night.
And strangers from a foreign clime
As thru our land they roam,
Fall into line when they see the sign
"Come make yourselves at home."
All gaze with pride on the archway
When the twinkling lights at dark
Reveal the name of Magnus
The donor of our park.