I have been keeping an eye on the monument at Derryfield Park next to the gazebo, brick inlays, many with names of people who either donated to the project or were honored by loved ones.
When I first moved to Manchester 11 years ago I frequented the park more often with my kids. I called the park department to report a few loose bricks I spotted, and someone came out to fix it. That was gratifying.
My kids are grown now, but during a recent trip to the park with my dog I was compelled to take photographs of the condition of the gazebo, which is deteriorating and tagged with graffiti, and the bricks, several of which are now missing.
A little maintenance goes a long way.
I will contact the park department again. This park is heavily used, not only by residents and visitors, but by school and community groups for recreation and track meets, football and baseball games. Countless dogs have roamed in the wide-open field. Countless kites have taken flight. Countless memories have been made here.
It’s an important green space.
The city has an Adopt a Site program, for which volunteers can step up to help keep tabs on vandalism at various sites and parks around the city. I don’t see Derryfield Park on the list, but will find out if it’s available for adoption.
