Constructed in 1907, the Delafield Fish Hatchery reflects Wisconsin's dependence on its abundant fishing waters and the state's early 20th-century response to fish depletion in lakes and streams through a hatchery program for propagating fish. It was the second hatchery built under that program. Originally covering 32 acres, it was designed by State Architect John T.W. Jennings, and its grounds included six holding ponds, 1,430 feet of pipeline, and the hatchery building. The building was constructed of fieldstone walls split and selected for their color and texture. Two interior concrete tanks were used to hatch walleye-pike eggs, while bass eggs were hatched in two ponds on the property. Fish fry were transported by electric railway to nearby lakes and streams. The hatchery remained in use until 1953, when it was converted into a research center, and in 1980 the hatchery and surrounding parks were deeded by the state to the city for public recreation.