Dawson Park — Attraction in Portland

Dawson Park, located in the heart of Portland's historic Albina district, is far more than just a two-acre green space; it's a living, breathing testament to the city's Black history, a place where profound social and political movements unfolded, and an enduring symbol of community resilience. Acquired by the city in 1921 and named after Rev. John Dawson, a prominent advocate for child welfare, the park's story is inextricably linked to the evolving narrative of Portland's African American community.

For decades, particularly from the late 1940s onwards, Dawson Park functioned as an unofficial town square for the surrounding Black community. It was a place for everyday gatherings, social events, and crucially, the epicenter of many political and social movements during the Civil Rights era. Imagine the echoes of powerful speeches – including one by Robert F. Kennedy just before his assassination – mingling with the sounds of children playing, creating a unique historical tapestry. The enduring presence of the park's iconic gazebo, built in 1978, incorporating the salvaged cupola from the Hill Block Building (a former cornerstone of Albina's Black commercial district), further solidifies its status as a landmark of collective memory.

A significant $2.6 million renovation in 2013-2014, consciously driven by community input, sought to revitalize the park while preserving its vital role as a gathering place for African Americans amidst ongoing gentrification. This thoughtful renovation introduced a new playground and interactive splash pad, enhanced accessibility and lighting, and added barbecue and picnic areas. However, it's the artistic and historical elements that truly set Dawson Park apart. Double-sided artistic medallions by Black Portland artist Isaka Shamsud-Din showcase traditional African patterns on one side and depictions of the neighborhood on the other. More powerfully, twelve artistic "story boulders" (with plans for more) vividly recount significant historical themes and events that transpired in and around the park, from civil rights marches and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s visit to local music and commerce. These boulders transform the park into an open-air museum, inviting reflection and learning.

While Dawson Park, like many urban parks, has faced challenges related to safety and livability in recent years, community efforts and city council initiatives are actively working to address these concerns, reaffirming its importance. The ongoing commitment to the park's well-being reflects its deep significance to the community.

Dawson Park isn't merely a place for recreation; it's a poignant and powerful reminder of Portland's past, a vibrant space for its present, and a hopeful symbol for its future, continually acknowledging and celebrating the rich cultural heritage it embodies. It stands as a testament to the enduring power of a community to shape and reclaim its public spaces, ensuring that history is not just remembered, but...

THIS MUCH IS TRUE: This park is, for you, the "wrong color," we've been told.

Let's be clear: this park has a colorful history. This park was "rejuvenated" in about 2015. Parts of this park are a kind of "apology" to Black folk. That's to say, for instance, the OnionDome "gazebo," stolen from Old Albina: it once topped a thriving business district. "Re-purposed" is what the C.O.P. did when they dropped in into its place. The park's history in directly linked to Black Portland history. The place now features "interpretive stones" to tell the history. Nevertheless, to "enjoy" this particular park in the 2020s, bring a) drugs, b) stolen merchandise for fencing, or, c) a desire for either (a or b). Have fun, folks. PS: Dawson Park is the playground of some of the trashiest people in our city -- just look at what's left...

Well thought out park. Age appropriate for 4+yo playground equipment, with bigger equipment for older kids. The play areas are a good distance from the street. There's bathrooms and a covered picnic area. Flush toilet closed for the winter, port-a-potty on-site. Hospital isn't towering over the park like the map might show. Lots of trees and a bigger green space in the middle. Really happy to see how clean this park was as there was-no trash or graffiti. ADA accessible...