As the last of the Mosteller Building is being hauled away from its home on Church and Gay Streets. We explore a park on the far catty-corner end of the Borough that still bears the retailer’s name.
Vibe:
Tucked away in a far corner of West Chester, nestled right up against the long debated railway tracks (will they bring back rail to West Chester, won’t they?), Mosteller park offers a swath of land easily accessible to those that live in the neighboring row homes. Pushing into its fifth decade this park has a worn feel but despite aging swings and paint chipped basketball hoops, the key was freshly painted and the playground equipment appears relatively new.
History:
The land for the park was purchased in 1963 from W.C. Homes, the builder who built the homes that border the park to the east. In a moment of generosity or resolve (according to the borough website, the builder was unable to build on this section of land because it is located on a floodplain) W.C. Homes sold the land to the borough for a sum of $500. The Mosteller name itself is known in West Chester for one James Brownback Mosteller and his family of entrepreneurs that helped revolutionize downtown West Chester with the formation of a department store. According to one report:
“They offered pension plans to their employees, introduced West Chester to “Bermuda shorts,” held contests, hosted flower shows and provided the town with place to meet a Santa Claus each year.”
(None of this is reflected in the park but I just thought it was kind of interesting.)
Key features:
Basketball court, playground equipment, swings, picnic tables
Events:
I am not aware of any events hosted at this park.
Location:
E. Rosedale and Linden St. It’s at the very eastern end of Rosedale. On the map.
Parking:
Street parking is available in front of the park. However, many of the streets around the the park are permitted so you may find spaces snatched up guests and other un-permitted residents.
Keep in touch:
Have an idea for Mosteller Park or any of the West Chester parks? Check out how this post on how to get involved.
Not the right park for you? Explore another.
Plus, West Chester has a new walking tour and five local runs you have to try at least once.