McKenzie Park

Set aside in 1887 by original Downtown developers George W. Jenks and C. J. Demorest, this block became the focal point of the small community, with streets laid out around it and the original development named Park Resort. By May 23, 1888, its central role was evident, and in 1907 a perimeter fence was erected while a bandstand stood at the center of what was then called Magnolia Park. A historical cannon stood at the entrance, a tennis court was added in 1913, and the park served as the site of annual Pioneer Picnic and Independence Day celebrations. Its largest and most famous gathering was Natal Day on July 1, 1913, marking the creation of Bay County with speeches, barbeques, bands, and fish fries. On December 4, 1964, it was renamed McKenzie Park in honor of the city's first mayor, Robert Lee McKenzie. Revitalization took place in 1986 under the direction of the Downtown Improvement Board, Panama City Main Street Project, the City of Panama City, and a citizen group organized for that purpose, and the park remains the heart of downtown Panama City.

Panama City, Florida · United States