PIONEER PARK

611 4th Avenue

Park Amenities

• Pavilions / Grills
• Volleyball Court
• Playground Equipment
• Horseshoe Pits
• Basketball Hoop

Pioneer Park, Newport's oldest park, was created in the face of increasing development, local citizens chose to set aside land for public recreation. 

From 1930 to 1940, Newport grew from 330 people to about 550 people.  As land was being bought up for homes and businesses, some Newport citizens became concerned that a chunk of historically significant land within the village would be lost.  The land that is now Pioneer Park was in the original plat of the Village of Newport, and was the place where volunteers mustered to join the Union Army and leave for the Civil War.

As the land was privately owned, the Village Council purchased parcels in 1937-1938, and in 1941, dedicated the land as Pioneer Park.  A wooden plaque was nailed to one of the oak trees which stated:

"HERE ON SEPT 26TH, 1861 THE 3RD MINN. REGIMENT MUSTERED INTO SERVICE." 

(The Unique Legacy of Red Rock & Newport, Minnesota 1837-1989. M. Virgina Yelland and Jane McClure, Editors.)  This inscription is now located on a monument in the center of the park. 

Today, Pioneer Park has a large play structure for children.  Also located in the park are a basketball hoop, several horseshoe pits, and a large grassy area for playing. The park has two covered pavilions equipped with electrical hookup, as well as picnic tables.   One  pavilion is capable of seating 100 people and the other seating 25 people.  There are charcoal grills, as well as running water. 

Also located at Pioneer Park is the Newport Heritage Monument and War Memorial.  Enclosed in the Newport Heritage Monument area is a time capsule to be opened in the year 2100.

Every August, on the second Sunday of the month, this park is home to Pioneer Day; this is Newport's annual celebration.  It is a family oriented day of picnicking, kids' games, arts and crafts, and music.