The mission of the Sunnybrook Park Association is to provide recreation facilities to the adults and children of the area by providing swimming, pavilions for picnicking, playground facilities, trails, and basketball and pickle ball courts. Mahoning Creek, which meanders along the border of the park, provides fishing to fishermen who frequent the stream in the spring and summer.
The Sunnybrook Park Association pledges to continue to upgrade and improve Sunnybrook Park in the upcoming years for the enjoyment of the public.
In 1919, Charles and Jennie Lewis purchased land along Mahoning Creek in Valley Township, with the intention of fulfilling Jennie's dream of creating a place for children to enjoy. After much hard work and planning, the park was opened in May 1927, named "Sunnybrook Park" following a contest won by Mrs. Frank Irving. The park initially featured a pool, bathhouse, concession stand, picnic pavilion, swings, a monkey gym, a merry-whirl, and a miniature golf course. Over time, additional cabins and picnic pavilions were added.
The swimming pool, with a maximum depth of nine feet, became a central attraction. It had diving boards, a lifeguard stand, and a memorable rope separating the deep end from the shallow area. Bathing suits were available for borrowing, and swimmers used key-lock baskets to secure their belongings.
In 1955, the park was sold to the non-profit Danville Playground Association. Hurricane Agnes caused significant damage in 1972, but the park quickly resumed operations, including a day care center and pool. In 1977, a new "Olympic"-sized pool was constructed and named after Dorothy M. Bonawitz, who had been instrumental in its funding.
On October 25, 2000, an agreement was signed between the Danville Playground Association and Valley Township Supervisors, allowing for grant funding for new playground equipment. The park continued to receive improvements, thanks to the efforts of volunteers from various organizations and community members.
In 2003, the Danville Playground Association transferred management of Sunnybrook Park to a Board of Directors, and they expressed appreciation for the support from the United Way for over 30 years.
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