Pawling is often referred to by its citizens as “Americans Best Kept Secret.” From the oldest municipal golf course in the United States, to the brand new pastry shops, our little town is picturesque, with the most hospitable people and gorgeous scenic views in the lower Harlem Valley.

  One of the most popular and scenic areas of Pawling’s past was Murrow Park, with a man made lake, and grounds consisting of pavilions, playgrounds, volleyball nets, and much more! This park was dedicated to Edward R Murrow, one of the most influential broadcasters of all time (and one of Pawling’s most famous residents). He was honored with numerous awards, including the Peabody Award, and the Medal of Freedom, which was the highest honor a civilian could receive from a president.

  This gorgeous lake and grounds that once hosted concerts, volleyball tournaments, and my favorite – Easter egg hunts, was, in fact, the place to be. I have vivid memories of lathering on the sunscreen and putting together a picnic lunch for a nice family outing.

 Unfortunately, the attention needed to maintain the park slowly diminished. As of this writing the park is struggling to stay alive. The lake itself is no longer safe for swimming, pavilions are covered in graffiti, and the playground is unsafe. This once lively place has slowly become a dead zone.

 I have learned from the Citizens Committee of Murrow Park that there are changes to come. As of today, the playground is being reconstructed to make a safer area where children may play, and there are talks underway of developing a dog park! There are many things that need to be done to this formally beautiful and active park which is waiting to be revived, and I am proud to say that the Town of Pawling has recognized it as a community asset and has begun the steps necessary to restore this once dynamic space to its former glory.

 Whether your available time to help out with this project is big or small, you can become involved. Every caring action taken will help restore the park to the wonderful way I, and many other members of our community, remember it when we were all younger.

Here’s hoping we can bring Murrow Park back to life!

Click Below to Listen:

[audio:http://www.pawlingpublicradio.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/130725_Tori-Tanner_Murrow-Park.mp3|Titles = Tori Tanner_Murrow Park]