As these men became older and modern outboards and equipment
became available and in use, the property was abandoned. The swamp area took
over until 1956 when the Scottville Chamber of Commerce became interested in
the possibility of establishing a City Park at the river.
J. Ralph Reeds was named chairman to see what could be done.
First, a survey was make which revealed that the River had been cut into the
bank on the south side, until only 1-1/2 feet of the original boat club
property remained. The second step was the purchase of additional property by
the Chamber of Commerce from the owner, Floyd Timmons. As this property was
mostly swamp, the next step was to try to fill the area enough for a picnic
site. That same year, in 1958 upon recommendation of Reeds, the Chamber offered
$1.00 per load of fill dirt to anyone who would dump in the swamp. The next
year, the same offer was made. Also, he Chamber hired about 150 loads of sand
to be brought in from the bank across the road.
This was the beginning of the Scottville Riverside Park. Excess
trees were cut, brush cleared and after the ground was leveled and seeded, a
few tables made their debut, as will as a hand pump.From this time on, through
the constant promotional efforts of Ralph Reeds, the citizens of the community
became interested. They began to help in time, money and equipment, especially
in time, which was a priority. During the next several years, hundreds and
hundreds of loads of free fill dirt were brought in by individuals, contractors
and the city.
George Stahelin scooped out a boat landing with his crane. About
this time, the City of Scottville took over the operation of the park with the
chamber of Commence continuing to help.
In 1964, a 20x40 shelter was built with money donated by the
service clubs of Scottville and labor from inmates of the local Camp Sauble
Prison Camp. As more people visited the park and wanted to camp, the need for
more water and better sanitary facilities became necessary. Again, with Ralph
Reeds's leadership, the Chamber of Commerce and City of Scottville joined
forces and built modern facilities which included a new 4-inch well, toilets,
lavatories, shower and hot water system. At the same time, approximately 30
camp sites were laid out which included an area for canoeists.
Today the Chamber's share of the expenses, an idea was conceived
to hold an annual chicken barbeque to be put on by the members of the Chamber
with cooperation from all the community organizations. All the profits would go
into park improvements. This event proved highly successful and has become a
tradition in the community, with about 600 enjoying the dinner each year.
The next project was the building of an office and maintenance
building. The city furnished the material and the men of the community
voluntarily built the building.
Another project which has worked very well is the planting of
memorial trees. As the property was mostly swamp, the fill dirt killed many of
the original trees. These had to be replaced and new shade trees were planted
in the open areas. An article appeared in the local paper requesting those
wishing to have a tree planed in memory of a loved on, could do so by
contributing the annual cost of the tree. The names of these people have been
placed upon a plaque in the park shelter.
The Scottville Riverside Park, once a swamp, is now a beautifully
landscaped area on the scenic Pere Marquette River within the city limits of
Scottville. It is comprised of approximately 30 acres, all of which has been
acquired to assure future expansion. Fifty parking sites accommodate trailers
for a modest fee. A large shelter with a stone fireplace is close by. North of
the trailer site is a well-planned camping site with its own shelter which is
used constantly by young people on canoe trips, scouts, vacationers, etc. In
the picnic area, near the entrance of the park, are numerous tables, ample
fireplaces and grills, kindling wood, as well as a playground area. Scottville
Senior citizens group have planted flowers are care for them in season.
The citizens of Scottville are extremely proud of J. Ralph Reeds,
former local postmaster, now retired. He has put in countless hours, year after
year working voluntarily, to make the beautiful park a reality. With his
persistent leadership and motivation, the Scottville Riverside Park is a
showplace in Mason County.