In the early 1860's George and Mary B. Calder built one of the first amusement parks on this spot, clearing the land with oxen, planting grass and trees, and converting a natural spring of water into a lake for boating. The lake was spanned by a picturesque bridge, and a dance pavilion, racetrack, ball park, merry go round, and other attractions were built. In 1909 the park was improved and its name was changed to Wandemere. After changing hands several times, Charles W. Nibley purchased the resort and presented it to Salt Lake City for recreational purposes.