Vinshonhaler Park dazzles Orland

A Recreational Treasure

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 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

that featured giant trees, a swimming pool, and a playground for children to enjoy. At first, the idea was shot down by the Town of Orland, as the residents felt their money could be better spent on something more productive. In the glimpse of defeat, Fred was saddened by the reality of not being able to accomplish something he felt quite passionate about. He dug up lost funds through the state’s WPA (Works Progress Administration) program, opening new perspectives which gave hope to Vinsonhaler that his vision could actually come true.

The program was soon approved, and the dream of creating a park was quickly underway. The entire Town of Orland came around with excitement to see what the recreation area would actually turn into. The WPA program was not only saving Orland money, but it also provided much needed jobs to many people living in the area. With the construction of the swimming pool, paths going in-and-out of the majestic trees, along with a new playground, there was plenty of work to be done. It was at this point where Fred saw there was something so special about a community discovering what it cares about and knew the most important thing were the people within. It was a dream come true, a park where people could meet and enjoy one another's presence without the bombardment of everyday life. The park was completed around 1920.

Fred would go on to create V&S Pharmacy, after purchasing an older pharmacy from its previous owner, Ferris Snow. He went on for many years living a happy life and constantly doing things for the community until tragedy struck in December of 1943, when Fred had a massive heart attack while working at his pharmacy, ultimately ending his life. The City of Orland was so distraught and saddened by the news they decided to rename the park in his memory. The previous name, Orland Municipal Playground, was soon changed to Vinsonhaler Park, commemorating and honoring the man who did so much for the community.

Since Fred’s time, the park has evolved in many ways. For starters, the pool has been renovated into an infinity pool where the water greets you at the top. Bihler Field has been added on, where many local baseball teams now play their games. The horseshoe pit is soon to be changed into a pickle ball court—another fun feature adding to the wide range of activities the recreational site has to offer. If you feel like getting a little bit of exercise, there is even a disc golf course that flows in-and-out of the captivating trees that were planted many years before. The disc golf course features nine holes with varying distances. At the tee off for each hole, you are greeted with a board that outlines what the course has in store for you. It’s a fun experience the whole family can enjoy. For those looking for competition, Vinsonhaler Park also features a pair of tennis courts that are open for the public to enjoy.

At the end of the day, whether you are interested in taking a walk, getting some casual exercise, or even sitting down for a nice picnic, Vinsonhaler Park will have a spot that’s perfect for you. We highly encourage you to get out and experience it for yourself.