Issue 103 – January 2016
By Stephen Guy
THE area was growing fast with the population soaring from just 1,400 in 1811 to more than 25,000 in 1901. Wavertree’s rural character was transformed as Liverpool’s growth generated demand for homes. Villas and terraced houses spread across open land and it was expected derelict Wavertree Grange would suffer the same fate. However, there was a man with sufficient vision to see tha----t residents would need a green space for healthy enjoyment. He is now widely acknowledged to have been Philip Holt, a member of the philanthropic Liverpool shipowning family. In an act of stunning generosity, he gave 108 acres of prime development land to the people of Liverpool as a children’s park. To him relaxation and wellbeing were just as important as money and profits. Wavertree Grange was demolished, the land levelled and 5,000 trees planted around the new park’s perimeter.
Opened in 1895 – about the time Wavertree was incorporated into Liverpool – the new amenity was appropriately called Wavertree Playground. It was soon dubbed The Mystery because the donor’s name has never been officially revealed – this was a condition of the gift. There were originally four entrances to the park including massive ornamental iron gates (pictured) off Smithdown Road. The opening ceremony featured a 1,000-strong children’s choir, morris dancing and gymnastic displays. A twohour firework display was watched by 60,000 people. When first opened, The Mystery had a more open aspect to the south before
0151 734 0666 www.suttonkersh.co.uk
WAVERTREE MYSTERY
Grant Avenue was constructed. Church Stile House once stood in Prince Alfred Road before being demolished and the land incorporated into the park. Other parts have been developed in recent years for leisure facilities. The Mystery became a popular showground. A temporary railway track was laid into the park in 1930 for the Liverpool & Manchester centenary celebrations. The Liverpool Show was a regular attraction from 1947. I particularly remember the flower show, with its beautiful displays, and energetic country dancing. Other events included the Royal Lancashire Agricultural Show, a grand pageant celebrating the 700th anniversary of Liverpool’s Charter in 1907 and military reviews. Wartime gatherings featured the Liverpool Victory Garden Show raising money for the Red Cross Agricultural Fund in 1942. The Mystery, with its wide grassy slopes, has sweeping views of surrounding landmarks including Liverpool’s Anglican Cathedral and Bluecoat School. Learn more about the history of Liverpool at the Museum of Liverpool, Pier Head, open 10 am to 5 pm every day, admission free.
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