Etching by Jordan Murray

THE BRIDGE IN WETHERSFIELD'S WINDMONT PARK

Circa 1903 (Park established in 1906)

Strategically placed to bisect the old but popular spring-fed lake, many a jogger, walker, ice skater, picnicker and nature lover have enjoyed the beauty of this bridge's simple design since it was built in 1908. Blending unobtrusively into its ever-changing but beautiful surroundings, it is admired by everyone who views it.

Design wise, the soft and curved walkway on the bridge is a pleasant contrast against its austere and angular structure. To compliment this gentle vertical curve is a kidney-shaped sidewalk that wraps around the water's edge. Truly, an artistic reflection of the Illinois manufacturing town where it was made, the bridge still exhibits the prowess it took to build such a work of art in the early 1900's.

Initially purchased from Hazelton Page's family and designed to be an attraction for the town, Windmont Park was officially opened on June 5, 1907 with a grand display of fireworks in the evening.

Back then, the lake was just a small portion of the 20 acre boarded-in field where circuses and many other events were held. The 8 foot wide bridge with its span of 105 feet that crossed over a lagoon was big enough for canoes and docks. Today, the lake is more like a large pond, better suited for toy boats and ice skaters.

Yes, if this rusty old bridge could talk, it would certainly tell of the many happy memories the town's folk shared with it over the years. It could also describe the multitude of changes affecting the Kewanee area since it was built. With the coming of the automobile and the freedom to travel the motorcar brought, the park's popularity waned, soon ending its reign as a profit-seeking amusement venture.

As expected, the park gradually fell into disuse and disrepair. Adding to its woes, the old wooden-floored pavilion, located nearby, was needlessly burned down by a disgruntled neighbor in 1930. Six years later, the popular Kewanee street cars, for which Windmont served as a maintenance site, stopped running; thereby causing attendance to dwindle even further. The park and its bridge seemed doomed to extinction.

In the mid 1980's however, new interest in Windmont was generated by the townspeople. A side walk was added which helped to rekindle the park's popularity. With help from a memorial fund and assistance from both Kewanee Hospital and the Henry County Health department, light workout structures were added to attract and serve the increasingly active and health-minded citizenry.

Around 1988, a Christmas lighting program was begun, giving a new and brighter look to the tired old bridge and its surroundings. A popular attraction once again, it truly bridges the glory of Kewanee's past with the city's present successes.

On June 16, 1940, the Kewanee Park District officially assumed the possession of the city's park system and took on the responsibility for the upkeep of the bridge and the rest of the grounds. Windmont Park still provides opportunities for active entertainment for the town and surrounding areas. It also offers a place for baseball, games, fishing, family, personal outings and, as always, a pleasant and aesthetic view of the grand old bridge.

©2003 Inovative Design & Display

Article and etching submitted by Jordan Murray