With the large crowds, it became clear that the park needed amenities. Built in chalet style, a three-story “skate tent,” as it was called, was put up and taken down at the south end of the lake each year during the winter season. It had concessions as well as changing areas and a place to warm up on cold winter nights, with a refreshment stand, cloak room, and skate room on the first floor. The second story provided windows for spectators to view the skating while enjoying a beverage, and finally the third level was reserved for a “ladies look-out exclusively.”
Drinking Fountain for Horses
Moving away from the skating area, there is a peaceful area known as Cherry Hill, named for its spring-blooming cherry trees. The paved concourse on the crest of the hill was originally intended as a scenic turnaround for horse-drawn carriages. In the center, there is a stunning fountain. Designed for watering horses by architect Jacob Wrey Mould in 1867, it was constructed of polished granite, wrought iron and bronze, and decorative Minton tiles, with eight colorful saucers for birds to drink from.
