Crite Park marked a major milestone on Thursday, July 16, with the installation of permanent interior and exterior fencing for the revitalized South End park.
The park, located at the intersection of Columbus Avenue and West Canton and Appleton streets, honors Allan Rohan Crite (1910–2007), a renowned South End artist whose work famously depicted the diversity of Boston.
After the park fell into a state of grave disrepair, a grassroots park-revalidation project was spearheaded by Friends of Crite Park (FoCP) – a nonprofit that includes Cheryl Dickinson, the group’s founding president; Maryellen Hassell, vice president; Roger Dickinson, treasurer; and board members Emeka Iheme and Dan Irvin.
“The park project was driven by our mission to build a sense of community and raise awareness of the history and stories that Allan Crite captured through his art,” Cheryl Dikinson wrote in an email. “Much of Mr. Crite’s paintings revealed soulful images of his African American neighbors as they went about their day to day activities at work and in play during the 1930s.
“The original park site was meant to acknowledge Allan Crite’s contributions but over time, the space fell into disrepair and became laden with trash and dead trees. Thus, the FoCP formed to lead the revitalization of the site and thereby duly honor Mr. Crite and raise awareness of the significance of his work.
“As soon as the park opened people began strolling through the park while others came to work or chat with friends. Through future events and the unique park design, which includes seating alcoves, game tables, and lush plantings, therein lies the possibility for new acquaintances that nurture the sense of community that Allan Crite honored and revered,” she wrote.
Roger Dickinson added: “The park is nice and, every day, neighbors are enjoying the living room like atmosphere our architect, Monique Hall, inspired.”
Meanwhile, the installation of the pergola shade covers, which are currently expected to arrive in late September or early October, will be the final planned enhancement to the park.
