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Home > Library > Online Exhibits > EXHIBIT_2019 > ONLINE_EX_BG > BG_BEECH_BEND

Beech Bend

Beech Bend

Beech Bend is an integral piece in the machine that is Bowling Green. This family-oriented park has been providing entertainment since 1898, originally under ownership and supervision of William Helm Brashear from 1880-1942 as a picnic area. As time grew on, the ownership and park did as well. Charles Garvin became the owner from 1942-1980 and added both rides and recreational activities, such as a pony ride, roller skating rink, dance hall, and swimming pool, to name a few. Racing also became a popular activity during the 1950’s and its popularity lives on today. The park boomed during the 1960’s with the addition of a zoo, the abundance of carnival rides, and the growth of the campground. However, the park’s revenue and popularity began to decline, as well as the health of the owner of 38 years. After Garvin’s death in 1980, the park turned over ownership to a group that included musician Ronnie Milsap, which purchased and owned the park from 1980-1982. After these unsuccessful years, ownership was returned back to the Garvin family. In 1984, Dallas and Alfreda Jones purchased the racetracks and began hosting drag-race events. As the popularity and revenue increased over the next three years the couple purchased the rest of the park, leading to what is current day Beech Bend.
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  • Former Beech Bend owner, Ronnie Milsap by WKU Library Special Collections

    Former Beech Bend owner, Ronnie Milsap

  • Former Beech Bend owner, Ronnie Milsap by WKU Library Special Collections

    Former Beech Bend owner, Ronnie Milsap

  • Patriotic Charles Garvin and his Dime by WKU Library Special Collections

    Patriotic Charles Garvin and his Dime

  • Beech Bend Park Sign by WKU Library Special Collections

    Beech Bend Park Sign

  • Map of Beech Bend Park by WKU Library Special Collections

    Map of Beech Bend Park

  • Beech Bend Park Moon Rocket by WKU Library Special Collections

    Beech Bend Park Moon Rocket

  • Riverside camping: Beech Bend Park by WKU Library Special Collections

    Riverside camping: Beech Bend Park

  • Blondie, the Elephant by WKU Library Special Collections

    Blondie, the Elephant

  • Beech Bend Race Track by WKU Library Special Collections

    Beech Bend Race Track

 
 
 

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