Hershey Park, now known as Hersheypark, was built in 1907 by Milton S. Hershey as a recreational area for the employees of his chocolate factory. The park was designed to provide a space for leisure and community gatherings, reflecting Hershey’s vision of creating a model industrial town with a high quality of life for its residents. Initially a simple nature park, it evolved over time to become a major amusement park, mirroring the broader trends in early 20th-century entertainment.
What Was Milton Hershey’s Primary Motivation for Building Hershey Park?
Milton Hershey’s main objective in establishing Hershey Park was to create a leisure and recreational space for the employees of the Hershey Chocolate Company and the residents of the town of Hershey. His vision extended beyond mere profit-making; he aimed to build a community that offered a superior quality of life compared to typical factory towns of the era.
Key motivations included:
- Community Development: Hershey set aside 150 acres of land for the park to ensure his employees and their families had a beautiful area for recreation.
- Employee Welfare: The park was designed to improve the lives of workers by providing a space for relaxation and enjoyment.
- Town Integration: By developing the park alongside the chocolate factory, Hershey emphasized its integral role in the community’s lifestyle.
How Did Hershey Park Evolve from a Nature Park to an Amusement Park?
The evolution of Hershey Park reflects the broader transformation of amusement parks in the early 20th century:
- Initial Stage (1907): Simple nature park with landscaped gardens, walking paths, and a boating lake.
- Early Additions:
- 1908: First carousel installed
- 1909: Amphitheater constructed
- Gradual Expansion: More rides and attractions added over the years
- Major Redevelopment (1970s):
- Introduction of themed areas
- Implementation of one-price admission plan
This transition mirrored the general trend of parks adding entertainment and thrill rides to attract more visitors.
What Facilities and Amenities Were Included to Support Community Development?
Hershey Park was equipped with various facilities to support its community development mission:
| Facility Type | Examples |
|---|---|
| Natural Features | Spring Creek, boating lake, scenic bridges, overlooks |
| Landscaping | Walking paths, flower beds, trees, shrubs |
| Community Spaces | Pavilion for dancing and roller skating, bandstand |
| Recreational Facilities | Baseball field, bowling alleys, tennis court |
| Accessibility Features | Lighting powered by chocolate factory generators |
These amenities were designed to foster a sense of community and provide family-friendly entertainment.
How Did Hershey Park’s Pricing and Admission Policies Change Over Time?
While detailed historical pricing information is limited, we can trace some key changes:
- Early Years: Pay-as-you-ride policy
- 1971 Redevelopment:
- Introduction of one-price admission plan
- Initial prices:
- Adults: $3.50
- Juniors (ages 5-11): $1.75
- Children under 4: Free
This shift to a one-price admission plan was part of the park’s strategy to enhance visitor appeal and convenience.
What Role Did Hershey Park Play in the Broader Vision of the Hershey Company?
Hershey Park played a crucial role in Milton Hershey’s vision for his company and town:
- Employee Benefits: The park served as a tangible benefit for Hershey employees, enhancing job satisfaction and loyalty.
- Community Building: It provided a central gathering place for residents, fostering a sense of community.
- Brand Image: The park became an extension of the Hershey brand, associating it with family-friendly fun and community values.
- Tourism Draw: As the park grew, it became a tourist attraction, bringing visitors to the town and indirectly promoting Hershey products.
How Did Hershey Park Contribute to the Economic Development of the Town?
The establishment and growth of Hershey Park significantly impacted the town’s economic development:
- Job Creation: The park provided additional employment opportunities beyond the chocolate factory.
- Tourism Revenue: As the park attracted visitors, it boosted local businesses such as hotels and restaurants.
- Infrastructure Development: The need to accommodate park visitors led to improvements in local infrastructure.
- Real Estate Value: The presence of a popular amusement park likely increased property values in the surrounding area.
In conclusion, Hershey Park was built as a key component of Milton Hershey’s vision for a model industrial town. It evolved from a simple recreational area for employees into a major amusement park, all while maintaining its core purpose of enhancing community life and supporting the broader Hershey brand.
References:
1. Hersheypark – Hershey Community Archives
2. History of Hersheypark – Wikipedia
3. Hersheypark History