Harmony Place playground is a gift to Crozet from Tabor Presbyterian Church.
In 2014 Bettye Walsh and Carol Davis dreamed of a place for young children and their parents to play and socialize. Named “Harmony Place,” as there were countless ways to make music using the drums, gongs, chimes, as well as the huge xylophone, but also to bring a sense of calm in the Zen garden or by using the prayer labyrinth. There were unusual swings, a putting green, horseshoe pit, wooden bridge, sandbox, climbing ropes, discovery barrels, wooden balancing objects, the ever popular tether ball, and a structure with a slide. The bamboo garden provided shade and space for children to hide, play pretend, or simply read.
We were delighted that others in our community contributed to this shared space, as well -- a local Girl Scout troop built a little kitchen, and a Boy Scout built the “rock” climbing structure with a swinging bridge as his Eagle project. Children’s groups from the Crozet Library to local after-school care programs congregated at Harmony Place to enjoy the space and each others’ company. Children’s laughter was the “music” we heard all day long. We delighted in the community right outside our doors.
Unfortunately, vandalism began during the pandemic, when so many of us were doing our part to stop the spread and keep our families and community healthy. One by one we had to remove every single activity from the park -- including the contributions from our local Scouts. Most recently, the balance beam was broken; it is now roped off and not to be used. The old “Bamboo Forest” is scheduled to be bulldozed when the new road is built.
We are asking for your help. When you visit Harmony Place, remember that this sweet space belongs to you. Supervise your children carefully, pick up any trash you see, check the play area and if any place needs attention call our office at 434-823-4255 and let us know. Together we can keep this little jewel of a park open.