...that's what the tree trail leaflet in the Homestead Park describes this vividly coloured tree as. Trees planted in the park include a range of native and introduced species, and this must qualify as the brightest of them all in the autumn.
The Homestead Park has been open to the people of York for over a century. It was originally part of the grounds of the home of a member of the Rowntree family. On 16 July 1904, Seebohm Rowntree (son of successful businessman and philanthropist Joseph Rowntree) placed an ‘Important Notice’ in the Yorkshire Gazette.
He announced that from 18 July to 18 August “the fields behind his house [would] be available for children attending the York Elementary Schools ... Donkey rides, swings, see-saws, sand heaps and games [would] be provided.”
Since then much has changed - formal gardens have been developed, while there is still a large and well equiped play area for children. The park is now open daily throughout the year, fulfilling it's original 1904 purpose and giving great pleasure to the many who visit it.
It makes my heart sing to read/hear of continued philanthropy and that so many generations have and will benefit from the generosity and forethought of the benefactors. 3 cheers for them all.
A beauty spot in an amazing garden. Enjoyed reading your story, Ian. Mr Rowntree must have been a great gentleman to share his 'wealth' with others. Glad his successors continued on that road.
Thank you all for your generous comments and favs, which put this shot on the trending and popular pages!
The Rowntree family were quakers, and it was their belief in the value of each individual life that led them to work for good in many ways. They provided a garden village for the workers from their factory to live. Facilities for workers at the factory included a library, a theatre, a large dining hall with subsidised food, and on site medical facilities. The city was provided with two parks by the Rowntrees. They were also involved in research into social deprevation, and their work led to significant changes to housing for the poor. A very generous family!
Thank you both for your lovely comments. The Rowntrees were an inspirational family in many ways and did much to help the people not only of York, but throughout the country.
Thank you all for your generous comments and favs, which put this shot on the trending and popular pages!
The Rowntree family were quakers, and it was their belief in the value of each individual life that led them to work for good in many ways. They provided a garden village for the workers from their factory to live. Facilities for workers at the factory included a library, a theatre, a large dining hall with subsidised food, and on site medical facilities. The city was provided with two parks by the Rowntrees. They were also involved in research into social deprevation, and their work led to significant changes to housing for the poor. A very generous family!
Ian
Thank you both for your lovely comments. The Rowntrees were an inspirational family in many ways and did much to help the people not only of York, but throughout the country.
Ian
Thank you both!
Ian