John Hinkel Park is an urban park located in the North Berkeley neighborhood of Berkeley, California, U.S.. It has been listed by the city as a Berkeley Landmark since April 2, 2001,[1] and it contains a historical plaque since 2003.[2]

John Hinkel Park
Map
TypeCity park
Location41 Somerset Place,
Berkeley, California, U.S.
Coordinates37°53′43″N 122°16′24″W / 37.895278°N 122.273333°W / 37.895278; -122.273333
Area4.9 acres (2.0 ha)
Operated byCity of Berkeley
John Hinkel Park
DesignatedApril 2, 2001
Reference no.238

History

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In 1919, Ada and John Hinkel donated 7 acres (2.8 ha) of hillside land to the city of Berkeley, in dedication to the Boy Scouts of America's work during World War I.[2] John Gregg, a local professor in landscaping, had helped with the design of the park before it was donated to the city.[2] The amphitheater was built in 1934 and designed by Vernon Dean and funded by the Civil Works Administration.[2] The amphitheater was used in the 1940s for community gatherings, music, and dance productions. It was also the performance space for the Berkeley Shakespeare Festival from 1971 until 1991.[3] The park also contains picnic tables and a playground.[4]

It once contained a redwood clubhouse (1918–2015), which was burned down in a fire.[4] The park was renovated in 2022.[4]

See also

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References

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  1. ^ Cerny, Susan (February 16, 2002). "John Hinkel Park". Berkeley Landmarks. Berkeley Architectural Heritage Association (BAHA). Retrieved 2023-12-30.
  2. ^ a b c d "John Hinkel Park". Berkeley Historical Plaque Project. 2003. Retrieved 2023-12-30.
  3. ^ Moss, Whitney (2023-11-24). "Secret Spots: John Hinkel Park in North Berkeley". 510 Families. Retrieved 2023-12-30.
  4. ^ a b c Kwok, Iris (2022-07-18). "Revamped amphitheater, new picnic area open at John Hinkel Park". Berkeleyside. Retrieved 2023-12-30.