by Lerrina Collins

Created on: February 13, 2009

Located just off busy Interstate 5 on Albany, Oregon's north end sits Waverly Lake Park. This 20 acre park nestled alongside Pacific Highway separates an active shopping district from a quiet subdivision. Boasting a large lake surrounded by green space and large trees, the park includes walking trails and a portion of an old Jewish Cemetery.

Were it not for Pacific Highway, Waverly Park would probably never have come to be. In fact, were it not for the Albany Junior Chamber of Commerce, Waverly Park might have remained an eyesore.

EARLY HISTORY

The history of Waverly Lake begins back in 1936. At this time the Oregon State Highway department purchased the old gravel pit on the site for use in constructing the Pacific Highway and the Pacific Highway overpass.

When construction ended in 1939, the new road system was greatly appreciated, but the large hole in the ground was an eyesore. Filled with water from Cox Creek, the old gravel pit became an unsightly lake - a headache for the City of Albany and a wart' on the local neighborhood.

TRANSITION

In 1941 Waverly Lake began its transition from an offensive hole-in-the-ground to a much appreciated haven. At this time the Albany Junior Chamber of Commerce requested permission to start what has become a famous annual Albany tradition. The Timber Carnival is a multi-day event which highlights Oregon's timber heritage.

Today the Timber Carnival is a large affair drawing competitors and spectators from across the country. However, in 1941, it was little more than an idea in the minds of a few forward-thinking young people.

Once permission was granted, the founders faced the task of finding a location to hold their event. While a large open space was required, events such as the log rolling contest called for a body of water. Somewhere along the line, Waverly Lake was suggested - and the unwanted hole in the ground became the birthplace of a soon-to-be popular annual community celebration.

Albany's Timber Carnival was held at Waverly Lake until the completion of Timberlin Park in the early 1970's. After the annual festivities moved to Timberlin Park, Waverly Lake entered a brief waiting period. With memories of fun and festivity still resounding from its rocky soil, the unsightly spot awaited its metamorphosis.

RECENT HISTORY

In 1979 Waverly Park broke free of its ugly cocoon. The City of Albany, in a growing effort to provide liberal green areas throughout the city limits, turned this old gravel pit into a lovely park.

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