Gage Park

For many years Brampton survived without a park. Public celebrations and large gatherings were either held at the Fair Grounds on Elliott Street or on the Athletic Grounds at Rosalea Park, but both were considered far from the centre of town and lacked the shade of trees. The cemetery also had a park function.

In 1902, the Town of Brampton purchased 2.4 acres from the grounds of the Chisholm estate, Alderlea. That same year William J. Gage purchased 3 ¼ acres, part of the Elliott estate that stood immediately to the north of Alderlea. He presented 1.7 acres of the property to be added to the proposed park. Brampton residents who generously supported the need for a park collected $1,054.00 so that extra land could be purchased to complete the area.

A park committee consisting of members of the town council was appointed. Many trees were removed and gravelled walkways prepared. Furthermore, all underbrush was removed and the land was levelled and seeded. W.J. Gage opened the park on Dominion Day (Canada Day) 1903.

Over the following years a bandstand was erected and the Horticultural Society volunteered to properly label all the trees for the information of the general public. In 1955 the Kinsmen’s Club of Brampton added a wading pool and in 1971 Brampton received the Flower Fountain from Benson and Hedges Tobacco Company. Gage Park is a well-used park and a truly unique part of Brampton.