Better Know A Park Series: Archer Park
Courtesy of The Monitor
Posted by Dave Hendricks
This one-block-square tract of land was deeded to the City of McAllen for use as a public park in 1917, six years after the town was incorporated. The donor, Mayor Oliver Percy Archer (1869 – 1930), was a prominent local businessman and civic leader. The site was officially named for him in 1933 by the McAllen City Commission. From 1936 to 1949, the McAllen Public Library was housed in the bandstand’s basement.
In 1923, the annual 4th of July Parade and Festival was first held at Archer Park. Since that time, the 2.623-acre park has served as the backdrop for the annual Christmas Posada Celebration, the Philippine Annual Holiday Event, the Mexican Artisan Fair, and numerous other events including many weddings. Just to the west of the Bandstand is the International Friendship Fountain, which was given as a gift to McAllen in October, 1989, on the 25th Anniversary of the Sister City Relationship between Irapuaato, Guanjato, Mexico, and McAllen.
Additionally, the park is across Main Street from the Renaissance Casa de Palmas Hotel that hosts dignitaries from around the world.
In 1964, the original irrigation system for the park was installed at a cost of $1,800. That system was supposed to maintain the park and its future amenities. The park has a walking trail and 12 park benches.
During the summer months, Movies in the Park are presented every Saturday evening. The Art Walk is held in the park on the first Friday of each month during the fall and spring. Archer Park serves as the gateway to the Art District and provides a gathering place for all McAllen residents.
The original gazebo at the center of the park was constructed of wood and burned in the mid 1920s. A new gazebo was constructed in 1933 at a cost of $2,673. In 1981, the Texas Historical Society installed a plaque in the Archer Park as a tribute to Mr. Archer and his gift to the City. This unusual Bandstand was re-built in 1933 and continues to be the Heart of Archer Park. The concrete pillars supporting the roof and the concrete steps ascending the Gazebo were cast to resemble trees.
While beautiful Archer Park is one of the oldest remaining historic landmarks in the City, it continues to be a vital park asset for the City of McAllen, and all the residents of the Rio Grande Valley.
This post, provided by McAllen Parks and Recreation and published by The Monitor, is the first in a collaboration designed to showcase the city’s parks.
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