The new installation celebrates an enormous legacy of children's play and Gyro playgrounds in Edmonton. The permanent exhibition renews and adds to future public enjoyment in Tipton Park, launched as Gyro Playground #3 in 1924.
Our local Gyro playgrounds began in 1922, initiated by the Gyro Club of Edmonton, to serve the public. The first is today's Giovanni Caboto Park, the next was Kitchener Park and Tipton Park was Gyro #3. Swings, slides and wading pools were popular and many young citizens grew up playing here. The legacy of these parks is a vibrant neighbourhood playground and "green shack" tradition for children's play today. This new exhibition is a vibrant outcome of community interest in Tipton Park heritage, also including new trees and a spray deck thanks to community efforts to renew the public park.
The new exhibition was researched and curated by historians Paulina Retamales Ochoa (MA history graduate, Faculty of Physical Education and Recreation) and Dr. PearlAnn Reichwein (Faculty of Physical Education and Recreation), and Dr. Betsy Boone (Faculty of Arts, Department of Art and Design), and designed by Mr. Kim Clegg (Ratt Creek Design). The Queen Alexandra Community League, in collaboration with University of Alberta curators and its Kule Institute of Advanced Study, as well as The Gyro Club of Edmonton, proudly acknowledges all collaborators, organizations and citizens in the co-creation of Tipton Park's renewal coordinated with the City of Edmonton.
The event is open to the general public to enjoy a morning in the park with neighbours, friends, and children. Special guests will include members of The Gyro Club John Ross and Dr. Gerry Glassford (Professor Emeritus, Physical Education and Recreation), Councillor Ben Henderson, The Honorable Linda Duncan, and others. The official ribbon-cutting ceremony will be at the archway by the playground on the northwest corner of 80 Avenue and 108 Street on May 7.
Program:
- 11:00-11:15 Welcome with drinks and muffins
- 11:15-11:30 Greetings and Acknowledgements
- 11:30- 11:35 Ribbon Cutting and photos
- 11:35 -12:00 Social to enjoy the park and playground and refreshments
Walking and cycling is encouraged to enjoy an active outing. Limited parking is available at Tipton Arena or on nearby streets for vehicles. Stay to play or bring a picnic for lunch. All are welcome to a fine spring day and casual event in the park.