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A movement for the benefit of the children of Sarasota was successfully launched by the Woman’s Club Monday night, when the Palmer Playground was opened to the public. With the band playing, hundreds of children scattered in groups, swinging and playing games, all enjoying to the fullest extent the place of recreation provided for them, the number of citizens who were present did not fail to see the importance of the playground, and what a material advantage it was to the city; and the happiness of the little ones amply repaid the generous donor and the Woman’s Club, through whom the gift was made, and who, from un-cleared land, had prepared the playground for the children.

Palmer Playground contains two or more acres of land. It has 300 feet frontage on Main Street, between Pine Street and Indian Avenue, and extends back about the same distance, having one tier of lots on the south side between the park and Golf Street. The ground level has a good growth of native grass, and is covered with pine trees, which give plenty of shade.

Mrs. Potter Palmer very generously offered the use of this land for a playground; and in making the offer to the Woman’s Club, gave a check of $100 towards putting it in order. So judiciously had Mrs. Grate, the Chairman of the Civic Committee, spent the money, that the ground had been cleared, a rustic pergola built, ten large seats placed, six swings put up, three tables for picnics built, and still had some funds for more swings, seats, sand piles, and amusements for the boys, which will be at once put up. Mr. Ludwig placed and electric light in the center; the city will place two more lights, and probably pipe the water there.

The Woman’s Club hopes to have this for a meeting place for both old and young. Already a great deal of interest is being taken in establishing a tennis court. Several of the young people have offered to contribute towards this, and this winter will see its accomplishment. Plenty of lights and seats will make this a popular place for the winter visitors, as well as the home people.

Monday evening, Mrs. Potter Palmer, her brother, A.C. Honore, the Mayor and Council, and other prominent citizens were present, and all expressed themselves gratified at the success of the undertaking.

The service of the band was greatly appreciated, and it is hoped in time a band stand will be among the playground’s attractions.

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