Suburban Parks: Walter Jones Historical Park
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A visit to Walter Jones Historical Park is like a trip back in time to old Florida without leaving the city limits. The 11 acre riverfront park is filled with historical treasures including a 19th century restored farmhouse, barn, sawmill and a museum.
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http://www.metrojacksonville.com/content/view/921
Great place, my parents have taken me several times when I've been in town.
It is only 9 miles away. I can go there on my bike! Sweet!
Holy cow! I had no idea this place even existed. What a neat looking park! I'll definitely have to pay it a visit soon. Man, Jacksonville could do themselves some serious good by marketing the great ammenities we have here. I work a few miles from the park and have never heard of it.
BTW, the map show the park near the intersection of Mandarin and Loretto Rd.
Its about a block north of that intersection. It really feels like you go back into time and access to the river is a great asset. Its definately a nice spot to have a picnic in.
I will be visiting soon... :) Thanks Metro Jax... too bad the city doesnt do a better job of publicizing this.
I remember that there was some anger over naming the park after Walter Jones, as opposed to the historically relevant Major Webb.
Apparently, Walter Jones' heirs demanded that the park be named after him as a condition of the sale - even though they were already being paid above market value to sell the land.
Regardless, it's a very nice little park. I highly suggest a visit on a lazy weekend afternoon.
Nice sunken boat, compliments of Fay.
I wasnt aware of this park as well, but I will be visiting now,,Thanks ;D
Finally made a visit over the holidays. What a gem. A small museum... free of charge (donations accepted). Highlights include artifacts recovered from the sunken Union ship Maple Leaf, Indian artifacts, and Harriet Beecher Stowe artifacts. Very nice walk through shaded trails and a very long pier extending into the St. Johns.
Thanks Metro Jacksonville! :)
Thanks for the review. I still need to get my butt over there.
The Mandarin Museum in the park is operated and supported by the Mandarin Historical Society with support from the City. With City cut backs to nonprofits, more support from the public is needed. If you visit, consider a donation or better yet, join the Mandarin Historical Society. They have done much to save and promote the history of Mandarin and organize and sponsor the many annual events at the park and historic general store at the northern intersection of Mandarin and Brady roads
The room with the art was a nice surprise! It was good to visit and say hello to Memphis Wood's art. This place is one of my favorites in Mandarin.
I've only been living in Jacksonville (Mandarin) for just over a year, and it wasn't until sometime last May when I went all the way to the end of the pier next to the Walter Jones park and saw the downtown Jacksonville skyline off in the distance when I realized just how *big* Jacksonville is. I've only just stumbled upon this website today, and wish I had found it sooner! I love the articles/photo tours on all the different neighborhoods here, all placed in historical context.
But back to the subject, whenever I have out-of-town company, I always take them to this park. It's fabulous and quiet and the trees are gorgeous.
Welcome emily! This site is a treasure trove of great Jacksonville information!