Chico residents are familiar with the parks the town has to offer, such as Chico landmarks, Caper Acres or Wildwood, that make use of the natural terrain of Bidwell Park. However you want to cut it, Chico has some amazing recreational sites that are perfect for family days or just to catch a breath of fresh air. While these parks are fantastic, it's also important to highlight our neighboring town, Orland, and the sites they offer. Vinsonhaler Park, a hidden gem located next to Orland High School, has been active for over 100 years. Like most things in life, the park had a non-traditional start but quickly became the town's favorite spot to relax and hangout. Vinsonhaler Park was started by Frederick Cornelius Vinsonhaler, an activist and local city council member. He was constantly searching for ways to involve the residents and ultimately uplift the town into more of a community where people lived untroubled and free. Growing up, Fred lived a modest life and did not have many valuables. However, at the end of the day, he was content due to his vision of becoming an educated collegiate man. Growing up not having much in the rural land of Kansas, Fred sold most of his possessions to pay 56
U P G R A D E D L I V I N G M AG A Z I N E S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 1
for school, including his only means of transportation and a horse his father gifted him. With little to his name, a shining light came to his aid. Fred’s uncle Dick Elson saw his great potential and hated to see his future possibly wasted. Dick was a well-maintained gentleman who had a decent amount of money for the time and decided to guide Fred through his college experience. Fred would go on to study at Highland Park College of Pharmacy in Des Moines, Iowa and graduated in the summer of 1900. While on his adventure, he met his future wife, Ethel Etta Hoskin, and the two immediately fell in love, marrying in October of 1902 before having a couple children. Years later, in 1909, Fred moved his family west to the small town of Orland and enjoyed his experience working for Birch Drug Company. Fred desired more—he wanted to make a difference and give the people of Orland a place where they could come together and rejoice. It only made sense for Fred to join the Orland City Council, as he would have some say on how the town would delegate its time and resources. Fred Vinsonhaler suggested a park, one
WRITTEN BY BEAU VANDERMATE
A Recreational Treasure
