Mcnish Park

In 1920, the city purchased a block and a half of ground between 12th & 13th streets from J to the alley between H and I streets to be used for a park. Known as Highland Park, it furnished a playground for children and a picnic spot. In 1933, W.F. Cramb was chairman of the Park Board. Highland Park, as well as the City Park and Crystal Springs, was included in various WPA projects. 


McNish-1

Cramb drew the plans for the Boy Scout cabin (which still stands) in the park and oversaw the construction of the outdoor sanctuary to be used for religious meetings. The sanctuary was formed by placing rocks as seats at intervals in the banks of the sloping sides of the draw which runs through the park, forming a natural amphitheater, semicircular in shape, with a little stone altar placed at the bottom of the draw and directly in front of these seats. A novel fountain resembling a totem pole and a large stone shelter house were all projects undertaken. 

McNish BSC-Fountain

Mrs. Sylvia McNish, who died in October 1935, bequeathed some lots to the city to be used for a children's playground and for park purposes; also a cash bequest was made. On June 8, 1941, the park was dedicated. The name of Highland Park was changed to McNish Park, and a perpetual flower bed was placed at the east side of the park in memory of Mr. and Mrs. McNish. Most of the original structures remain today making the park an outdoor sanctuary, Beautiful trees and flowing water make this park one of Fairbury’s finest.

McNish - Flowers Playground


McNish Park is home to the Fairbury Disc Golf Course, located at 12th & J Streets in Fairbury, Nebraska. The Fairbury Disc Golf Course has nine holes nestled amongst the mature trees, fountains, rock and waterfalls, making it a course that is fun for all skill levels, from beginner to pro. The Fairbury Disc Golf Course was constructed in 1999. The course was designed by Lincoln architect and disc golf pro, Brad Packett. Seed money for the project was provided by Western Summit General Contractors, along with cash and in-kind donations from businesses, private individuals and the City of Fairbury.

McNish-5B