L. RON HUBBARD PARK

Hello, New Jersey locals, particularly those in the historic city of Elizabeth! When we think of local parks, our minds often go to playgrounds and sports fields. However, some parks serve as unique commemorative spaces, telling a story about our city's past. One such distinctive location is L. Ron Hubbard Park, a site that holds a special place in Elizabeth's history, inaugurated two decades ago by Mayor Christian Bollwage.

Located at the intersection of N Broad Street and Salem Avenue, L. Ron Hubbard Park stands as a quiet tribute to the 50th anniversary of the publication of "Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health," a highly influential book on the human mind. Elizabeth, NJ, played a significant role in the early days of Dianetics, as it was the home of the very first Dianetics Research Foundation. This foundation was the precursor to a global network of organizations that now number more than 11,000, underscoring the historical importance of this specific location.

At the heart of L. Ron Hubbard Park is a beautiful, prominent four-faced clock, a testament to its unique character. This clock was built by the renowned Verdin Bell Company, a name synonymous with quality and craftsmanship in bell and clock making for over 180 years. This article will delve into what makes L. Ron Hubbard Park a notable landmark for Elizabeth residents, offering insights into its location, key features, and why it's a place worth visiting for its historical significance and tranquil ambiance.

L. Ron Hubbard Park is situated at the intersection of N Broad Street and Salem Avenue, Elizabeth, NJ 07208, USA. This prominent address places it in a well-trafficked yet accessible part of the city, making it easy to locate for both residents and visitors. North Broad Street is a significant artery in Elizabeth, ensuring good visibility for the park.

For those traveling by car, street parking is typically available in the surrounding areas, although, as with any urban location, availability may vary. The park's placement on a major thoroughfare means it's straightforward to reach from various parts of Elizabeth and even from neighboring towns.

Elizabeth boasts a robust public transportation network, which further enhances the park's accessibility. Numerous NJ Transit bus routes operate along North Broad Street and nearby avenues, with bus stops likely within easy walking distance of the park. For those utilizing train services, Elizabeth Station, a major NJ Transit rail hub, is also relatively close, offering connections to Newark, New York City, and other parts of New Jersey. This makes L. Ron Hubbard Park a convenient spot to visit whether you're commuting, exploring Elizabeth on foot, or using public transit. Its integration into the urban landscape ensures it remains a visible and accessible landmark for the community.

L. Ron Hubbard Park, while a public space, offers a distinct set of "services" that lean more towards commemoration and contemplative enjoyment rather than active recreation. Based on public information and reviews, here are the key offerings:

• Commemorative Space: The primary "service" of the park is its role as a commemorative site. It was established to honor the 50th anniversary of the publication of "Dianetics" and the historical significance of Elizabeth as the home of the first Dianetics Research Foundation. This provides a unique historical context for visitors.

• Public Green Space: As a park, it offers a managed green area. This provides a pleasant, open environment for residents to relax, take a moment of pause, and enjoy some fresh air in an urban setting.

• Architectural Landmark: The park prominently features a four-faced clock built by the renowned Verdin Bell Company. This clock serves not only as a functional timepiece but also as an attractive architectural element and a point of interest, adding to the park's visual appeal.

• Quiet Reflection Area: Given its commemorative nature and simple design, the park lends itself to quiet contemplation and reflection. It's a place where one can pause, observe, and learn about a piece of Elizabeth's unique history.

• Informal Meeting Point: Like many small neighborhood parks, L. Ron Hubbard Park can serve as an informal meeting point for locals, offering a recognizable and easily accessible spot to connect with others.

It is important to note that unlike larger recreational parks, L. Ron Hubbard Park is not typically equipped with extensive playgrounds, sports fields, or picnic facilities. Its value lies in its historical significance and its role as a peaceful, well-maintained public space.

• The Central Clock by Verdin Bell Company: The undisputed centerpiece and primary highlight of L. Ron Hubbard Park is the impressive four-faced clock. This clock was custom-built by the esteemed Verdin Bell Company, a Cincinnati-based manufacturer known globally for its high-quality bells, clocks, and towers since 1842. The presence of a Verdin clock signifies exceptional craftsmanship and durability, making it a notable architectural and functional feature that draws attention and often garners praise from visitors.

• Commemorative Significance: The park was inaugurated specifically to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the publication of "Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health," and more importantly, to acknowledge Elizabeth, NJ, as the original site of the first Dianetics Research Foundation. This makes the park a unique historical landmark for those interested in the origins and development of these influential ideas.

• Mayoral Inauguration: The fact that the park was inaugurated by the Mayor of Elizabeth, Christian Bollwage, underscores its official recognition and importance within the city's public spaces. This highlights its status as a deliberate addition to Elizabeth's landscape.

• Aesthetic Appeal: Reviews describe the park as "simple" yet lovely, often praising the "beautiful clock." This suggests that despite its modest size, the park is well-maintained and offers a pleasant visual experience, providing a small oasis of calm.

• Connection to a Global Network: The review notes that the Dianetics Research Foundation was the "progenitor of a network that today counts more than 11,000 organizations." While the park itself is local, its historical context connects it to a much broader global movement, adding a layer of intrigue for visitors.

As a public municipal park, L. Ron Hubbard Park does not offer "promotions" or "special offers" in the commercial sense. Access to the park and its features is free and open to the public. Its "offer" is its provision of a unique historical landmark and a tranquil green space for the community.

However, given its commemorative nature, there might be occasional events or activities organized by relevant organizations or community groups that utilize the park. These could be seen as "special offers" in terms of free public engagement or educational opportunities. Examples could include:

• Anniversary Events: Given its commemoration of Dianetics, there might be periodic anniversary celebrations or historical talks held at or near the park, especially around significant dates related to the publication of "Dianetics" or the founding of the Elizabeth research foundation.

• Community Gatherings: Local groups interested in the history of Elizabeth or the significance of the park's namesake might organize informal gatherings or informational sessions.

• Historical Walking Tours: The City of Elizabeth or local historical societies might include L. Ron Hubbard Park as a stop on guided historical walking tours of the city, providing context and insight into its significance.

To stay informed about any such potential events or special programs that might take place at L. Ron Hubbard Park, New Jersey locals should consult the official website of the City of Elizabeth (elizabethnj.org), particularly the Parks and Recreation or historical sections. Additionally, local community calendars, historical society websites, and local news outlets in Elizabeth would be good sources for announcements.

As L. Ron Hubbard Park is a public municipal park, there isn't a direct "contact number" for the park itself. For general inquiries regarding park maintenance, public access, or city-related park matters, you would typically contact the City of Elizabeth's Department of Public Works or their Parks and Recreation Division.

Address:
N Broad St &, Salem Ave, Elizabeth, NJ 07208, USA

Based on publicly available information for the City of Elizabeth, here are the general ways to contact the relevant authorities:

• City of Elizabeth Main Phone Number: For general inquiries that can then be directed to the appropriate department, you can usually find a main contact number for Elizabeth City Hall on their official website.

• Elizabeth Department of Public Works / Parks & Recreation: Check the official City of Elizabeth website (elizabethnj.org) under "Departments" for specific contact information (phone numbers or email addresses) for the Public Works or Parks & Recreation departments. These departments are responsible for the upkeep and management of city parks.

While the provided information mentions a phone number "+1 201-858-9127" in relation to "Russell Golding Park" (which was a previous request), this number does not appear to be associated with L. Ron Hubbard Park directly. Therefore, for inquiries specific to L. Ron Hubbard Park or Elizabeth's city parks in general, relying on the official city channels is the most reliable approach.

L. Ron Hubbard Park is uniquely suitable for locals in Elizabeth, New Jersey, primarily because it offers a distinctive blend of historical significance, urban green space, and a quiet retreat within the city's bustling environment. While it may not be a large recreational park with extensive amenities, its value to the community is deeply rooted in its commemorative purpose and serene ambiance.

For Elizabeth residents, the park serves as a tangible link to a specific moment in the city's history. It was created to mark the 50th anniversary of "Dianetics" and acknowledges Elizabeth as the original home of the Dianetics Research Foundation. This provides a local point of pride and interest, allowing residents to connect with a unique aspect of their city's past that had a global impact. For those interested in local history or intellectual movements, the park offers a focal point for understanding a piece of Elizabeth's unique heritage.

The most striking feature, the four-faced clock built by the esteemed Verdin Bell Company, is not just a timepiece but a beautiful landmark. Its presence adds an element of architectural charm and permanence to the intersection of North Broad Street and Salem Avenue. Locals can appreciate the craftsmanship of the clock and its subtle beauty, contributing to the aesthetic appeal of their daily surroundings.

Furthermore, in an urban landscape, even a small park like L. Ron Hubbard Park provides invaluable green space. It offers a simple, clean, and quiet spot for residents to pause, sit, and enjoy a moment of tranquility amidst the city's pace. This can be a refreshing stop during a walk, a place to gather thoughts, or simply a pleasant visual amenity that enhances the neighborhood's quality of life. Its accessibility on major city streets means it's a convenient point of interest for many.

In conclusion, L. Ron Hubbard Park is suitable for Elizabeth locals because it offers a unique blend of historical commemoration, civic pride, and accessible urban green space. It's a place to reflect on a specific aspect of Elizabeth's past, appreciate a beautiful landmark, and enjoy a quiet moment outdoors, making it a valuable and distinct part of the community's public realm.

L. RON HUBBARD PARK

N Broad St &, Salem Ave, Elizabeth, NJ 07208, USA