Community & Infrastructure

Community Services

Harold S. Bradshaw Memorial Park

520 Chantler Road, Fenwick

This fifty acre passive nature park is dedicated to the memory of Mr. Bradshaw (1900-1982). The property, originally a family farm, was bequeathed by Mr. Bradshaw to the Town of Pelham to be used as a public park. Development work on the property began in 2002 and the Park was officially opened in June, 2003.

For about 25 years the property has been allowed to naturally regenerate. It offers wetlands and a tributary of the Coyle Creek, mature bush and orchard, a variety of young trees and plants including an area of prairie grass, Pin Oak trees, and other sensitive vegetation. It provides habitat for a variety of indigenous wildlife and a natural passageway with adjacent areas for plant and animal species.

Featured is a 1 km stone dust Main Trail (about 25 minutes walking time) which winds through a variety of vegetation and past the monument commemorating Mr. Bradshaw. This trail provides easy walking for everyone and has benches for relaxation and quiet reflection.

There are picnic tables in an open meadow at the centre of the Park. Approximately 2000 native wildflowers were planted along the edges of this trail in 2004. These plants will self-propogate in future years creating a delight of colour. A wood sculpture commissioned from a local artist greets visitors near the entrance to the Main Trail

Leading off the Main Trail are three secondary trails:

• The Butterfly Trail has pockets of indigenous wildflowers and shrubs which were planted in 2004 and specifically chosen to attract various species of butterflies;
• The Orchard Trail is through the area where the original farm orchard remains. Several species of heirloom fruit trees are still thriving and the old foundation of the original farmhouse is visible;
• The Evergreen Trail takes you through mature coniferous trees as well as other native shrubs and trees. This area was enhanced in 2004 with the planting of about 2000 pine, spruce and cedar seedlings.

The Coyle Creek stream tributary and pond are being restored and enhanced for natural habitat. A boardwalk and observation deck overlooking a variety of native species of wetland plants is included.

In 2005 volunteers planted about 450 shrubs which were donated by the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority and chosen to attract wildlife, particularly birds.

The Park is open all year from dawn to dusk each day. Accessible parking and washrooms are available. It's the perfect place to bring the family and learn about the natural environment while enjoying some outdoor exercise. The surprise feature is a glimpse of birds and wild animals that inhabit the Park.

Be prepared to be delighted by sightings of monarch butterflies, bluebirds, woodpeckers, rabbits and deer. Some people exercise their dogs (always on leashes and "poop and scoop" please); some snap photographs; some are inspired to create art; some cross country ski and snowshoe during the winter months. Your enjoyment of the Park is unlimited!

This nature park is yours to enjoy! It is a living legacy for future generations. It is simply nature.