August 2007 Update at Bottom of Page!!!!

At the turn of the century, when Rock Island Railroad came through Windsor, a large supply of water was needed for steam engines. Thus, a lake was created and fed by several springs. The surrounding land was used as a park and recreation area by the citizens of Windsor. The park was first named "Rock Island Park". Swimming and winter ice-skating were encouraged, although it is not allowed today. (There is, however, boating and fishing.) Picnic areas were established and a three-tiered bandstand erected for summer concerts. The Rock Island completed its tracks to Windsor in time for the World’s Fair in St. Louis in 1904.

In August 1922, the first clubhouse was built near the lake. It was located in a beautiful grove of trees around 200 feet from the railroad tracks, and when completed, was one of the most delightful places for an outing to be found anywhere.

Plans were made to put in a croquet ground, tennis court and other entertainment for children. In 1923, another clubhouse had been constructed, and more were planned for the future. Today, (2006) all this is gone, but the Boy Scouts have a cabin by the lake, and there is a ball diamond, shaded campground, play equipment and shelters for picnics.

One of the highlights of Windsor’s first 100 years was the gift by the Rock Island Lines of the lake at the park to the city. (With the coming of the diesel engine, there was no longer need for such a water supply.) Deed to the 50-year-old recreation area was formally given to the city officials on July 29, 1954. J. D. Farrington was president of the Rock Island Line when the land was officially given to our town, so the park was named for him. The park is known today as "Farrington Park". Today the city park board controls the park and lake where boating fishing and picnicking are very popular.  In the 1980’s, the Rock Island Railroad operated its last train.

Today, the Windsor Area Chamber of Commerce is excited about a project involving the old "Rock Island Rails". Our intention is to create a walking/biking/equestrian trail that connects to the KATY Trail and extends to our beautiful Farrington Park. Not only does the park have a beautiful lake, shelter houses & play equipment, but a nice shaded campground. Many KATY Trail enthusiasts traveling through Windsor will enjoy this.

August 2007 Update!

We are still seeking donations and other grant opportunities to help with this project and another project to build shower houses at the campground. To date, we have received two grants and several monetary donations. We did not receive the 2006 Department of Natural Resources Trails Grant, but we have applied again for the 2007 DNR Trails Grant. We have $2,545.00 in a bank account for this project, $1,500.00 in pledges that will be sent as soon as we have finalized the plans.  We are very close to finalizing an agreement with all parties involved.  If you would like to find out more or help with this project, contact the:

Windsor Area Chamber of Commerce
102 N. Main
Windsor, MO 65360
660-647-2318
www.windsormo.org
windsorm@iland.net

We hope you will help spread the word of this exciting project. Please share this with others who are KATY Trail enthusiasts.