6. Howard Park, bounded by Main St &
Grimes Ave & Court St. & the BNSF RR

During the Civil War this land was used as a mustering area (see the plaque in the southwest corner).  The Franklin School was here from 1868 to 1913.  Scroll down for more photos.

In 1912 the Chicago, Burlington & Quincy Railroad bought the land for a new train station and was persuaded to give the remaining land back to the city (with the proviso that it remain a park).

It was later named Howard Park in honor of Elmer A. Howard, a vice-president of the railroad.

The first train had arrived on September 1, 1858, a very important event for Fairfield (the original railroad station was at 6th Street).

Amtrak passenger service to Fairfield ceased on May 1, 1971.
The Burlington & Missouri River Railroad eventually became today's BNSF Railroad.     Read about Fairfield's railroading history.

The picnic shelter, with the Memorial Stone in front.

In 1912, Elmer A. Howard, then a vice-president of the C, B & Q railroad, persuaded them to give land for this park.

Jefferson County citizens fought in the Civil War -- a Civil War plague is mounted on a rock.

The retired Amtrak railroad station at the north end of the park, still owned by BNSF Railroad.

View of the park from the train station.   Passenger service to Fairfield ended on May 1, 1971.

The Farmers Market is held here - food, flowers, crafts, entertainment...

The playground.

Volunteers just finished installing a pergola (Aug 19, 2010).   Pavers will be installed later, and vines planted.