Crawfordsville, IN

Frances Wooden Park

Frances Wooden Park, formerly known as Northside Park, has a rich history as a stop along the Underground Railroad in conjunction with the construction of the original Bethel AME Church in 1847 and the homesite of Crawfordsville’s second mayor, John Speed. It was a final stop, before reaching Sugar Creek, to continue northward along the route.

The design team collaborated heavily with the members of the adjacent Bethel AME church, local residents, and local historians to envision a space that would serve the church and neighboring communities and commemorate the rich history of the site. 

A new large shelter doubles as an outdoor space of worship for the Bethel AME congregation. A series of custom-designed benches denote important dates corresponding to site and local events preceding and following the passing of the 13th Amendment. The design of the playground structure and pathways within the park reflect the movement of water while musical play features mimic the sounds of water, strengthening the site’s connection to Sugar Creek.

Today, the site acknowledges and highlights the rich history of the past while emphasizing gathering and play for the present-day community.