DavisToday

DAVIS HISTORY

How Central Park became Davis’s gathering place

Central Park dates to 1937, and the neighboring block that once held Davis Elementary eventually became part of the expanded park and farmers-market home.

Central Park has been a civic gathering place for generations. The Farmers Market’s own history dates the original park to 1937. Next door, Davis Elementary occupied a block from 1918 through 1966. After years of debate over what should replace the school, the land ultimately stayed public and helped make possible the expanded park and permanent Farmers Market setting.

1918–1966Davis Elementary occupies the block next to today’s park.
1937Central Park is constructed.
1970s–1980sThe former school block remains under public ownership amid development debates.
1990 eraThe expanded park takes shape around the Farmers Market.
Period1918–1990
EvidenceDocumented
Last checked2026-08-18
SourceDavis Farmers Market — History

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