The Site of the Royal Promenade Gardens, Etc.
A little while ago, I was looking through the Group’s website, when I came across an article on the grand sounding Royal Promenade Gardens , by Roger Lea, which formed part of his ‘History Spot’ series. These were, as members will recall, published in the Sutton Coldfield News, over a period of several years. Upon reading further, it appeared that the gardens were designed and laid out by a Job Cole, back in 1868. It was situated alongside, what is now, Clifton Road. Ten years later, the Royal Promenade Gardens were taken over by the Sutton Coldfield Crystal Palace Company . However, this venture was short lived and ended in bankruptcy. In 1906, the leasehold of the grounds was taken over by the Crystal Palace Amusement Park , owned by Patrick Collins, who was one of the best known showmen in the country. In 1907, a miniature railway opened adjacent to the funfair and ran alongside the boundary of Sutton Park down to Wyndley. This was purchased by Pat Collins in 1912. I found that, although all four enterprises were covered briefly on our website, it was only on an ad hoc basis and the picture as a whole was missing. I thought therefore that a project, bringing together all the various aspects, would be of benefit to members.
- Author: Keith Jordan (SCLHRG)
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