
Chautauqua Park
Chautauqua Park
Chautauqua Park
The original 5.92 acres of the park property was dedicated to the city by the Sioux
City and 51. Paul Railroad Company, in October, 1875 in the plat of Park Addition.
Chautauqua Park was the city's first park and was originally referred to a" Lake Park.
At the turn of the century and on into the 1930's it became a stop on the national
Chautauqua circuit. The local Chautauqua society was formed by Professor C. H.
Wame. The citizens built a wooden pavilion overlooking Okabena Lake, to provide
an area for theater entertainment, lectures, musical events, and comedy productions.
The Chautauqua program was an annual summer event, that ended in 1931 with
evangelist Billy Sunday as the last attraction. Additions to park were made in April,
1940 when Lot 1, Block 4 of Park Addition was acquired from P. C. Heimark, for
$900.00, and East 80' of Lot 2, Block 4, Park Addition was acquired from George
Luffey for $9,000.00. The park was officially named Chautauqua Park, by city
council, in January, 1950.
Concession Permits: 2
Number of Handicap Parking: 2
Number of Off Street Parking: 35
Number of On Street Parking: 100
Size: 7.40 acres
The park is a community park and is handicap accessible, located on the shores of Lake Okabena. Modern restroom and has an abundance of green space. Fishing dock located within park. Although the dock is not handicap acessible, there is an abundance of shoreline avialable for fishing. Enclosed and open shelter with electricity, natural gas (enclosed area only) and water. Enclosed shelter is avialable to rent by contacting 507-666-5028. Weekly city band concerts on Wednesday evenings approximately mid June thru mid July at 7 pm. within the band shell. Seating available. Band shell available for rental-weddings, concerts, church services. Phone 507-372-8650. Plenty of on street parking surroundng the park.