In 1894, the Canadian Pacific Railway sold the block of land at 1400 Lorne Avenue to the City for only one dollar. As promised, the City established a park on the property, and it became West End Park. In 1907, the park was renamed Stanley Park in honour of local dentist and legislator Stanley McInnis. McInnis passed away suddenly on November 4th, 1907. The day of his funeral was declared a public holiday and the park was renamed in honour of the beloved community member.
In its prime, Stanley Park was a popular location for Brandon citizens to gather. With its beautiful bandstand, the park was always busy with concerts and events. A bowling green was available for leisure and special events. Downtown parades often ended with celebrations at Stanley Park. The park was also a lovely place for children to play and for people to stroll through.
The photo shows Stanley Park as it appeared around 1911. (Photo Source: Clark J. Smith, Lawrence Stuckey Collection, S.J. McKee Archives, Brandon University)