Kirkside Park
Kirkside Park, Roxbury’s 14-acre treasure, was once the estate of Helen Gould Shepard, daughter of Roxbury native son, Jay Gould. At the turn of the 20th century, she purchased the property next to the Jay Gould Reformed Church and converted the farmhouse into an elegant mansion, calling it Kirkside (“beside the church”). She also purchased the land behind the property.
By 1905 Kirkside Park featured rustic Adirondack-style bridges, winding paths along the East Branch of the Delaware River, meticulously crafted streambank retaining walls, and abundant plantings.
Briefly after Mrs. Shepard’s death in 1938, Kirkside and Kirkside Park were privately owned, then deeded to the Reformed Church of America. Subsequently, the park suffered decades of deterioration. By 1980, Kirkside Park was under threat of development. The Save Kirkside Committee raised funds to buy the park and deeded the property to the Town of Roxbury, stipulating that it remain a public park in perpetuity.
In 1999, Roxbury began to restore this community jewel. With the assistance of state, local and federal agencies, private donations, and fundraising events, Kirkside Park has returned to its former splendor, once again serving as the centerpiece of the hamlet of Roxbury. The park has hosted many celebrations, such as Turn of the Century Days, vintage base ball matches, community potlucks, fireworks, weddings, and performances.
Kirkside Park and the multi-use Barn Pavilion, with its professional kitchen and restrooms, are available for public and private events.
Contact the Office of Parks Recreation and Historic Preservation for details and pricing.
