Most anyone that is vaguely familiar with Akron history knows that Gen. Simon Perkins and Paul Williams owned the land that became the city of Akron. These two men donated to the State of Ohio the land needed to build the O&E canal, and planned 200 other lots around it as shown on the original plat. They probably didn’t donate the land for the canal out of generosity, but because they knew that it would greatly increase the value of their property around it. What they did do out of the generosity of their hearts was to donate lands for public use.1825- The city of Akron is founded and 5 acres near the center are designated for a “Public Square.” Unlike the other villages in Summit County, the town of Akron didn’t grow up around this planned public square. Public demand dictated that Akron grow up around the canal three blocks away and northward. The “public square” served as more of a park than a populace center, so became known as “Perkins Park.”
1825- The city of Akron is founded and 5 acres near the center are designated for a “Public Square.” Unlike the other villages in Summit County, the town of Akron didn’t grow up around this planned public square. Public demand dictated that Akron grow up around the canal three blocks away and northward. The “public square” served as more of a park than a populace center, so became known as “Perkins Park.”
1900- George Perkins, grandson of General Simon Perkins, donated 76 acres originally known as Perkins Woods, to the city for use as a park. The two parks names were changed to alleviate confusion. The 5 acre area downtown was renamed Perkins Square and the wooded area that would later contain the Akron Zoo was named Perkins Park. 1910- A playground, Akron’s first under supervision, was opened at Perkins Square and that summer. An average of 500 children a day played there. The playground was so popular that over the next two years, 4 more playgrounds were built within the city limits.
1928- Children’s Hospital moved to the block on the north side of the park.
1940s- Perkins Square would fall into disrepair and actually become a public nuisance. Only because the block had been designated as public land was it not developed., in
1954- Mayor Berg wanted to pave the block and turn it into a parking lot, but the good people at the Summit County Historical Society protested, and saved Perkins Square.
1959- Seemingly overnight, the city cuts down most of the trees and builds an ice skating rink. This action is rebuked by nature and history lovers, but the people of Akron enjoy the winter activity for the next five years.
1970- The park is rebuilt, basketball and tennis courts, sidewalks, benches, are among many improvements.
1989- Akron Children’s Hospital expands across Buchtel Ave.
2008- Akron Children’s Hospital opens the “Children’s Garden of Hope and Healing.” Additions include gardens, a walkway, benches for reflection, water sculpture, playground, and gardens.
