Baldwin Park began as a gravel pit owned by Martha Baldwin's family. On June 15, 1889, Miss Baldwin gave the 1.66-acre land to the Village on the condition that it be used as a park. Through her efforts, the pit was filled in, smoothed over, and planted with grass and trees. This green space near the center of Birmingham was later nearly lost during planning for Ring Road, but the original restrictions in Miss Baldwin's deed prevented that. For years, a large rock stood at the corner of Maple and Southfield with a metal ring in its top, where Martha Baldwin is said to have often tied her horse while inspecting the park's planting and care. In recognition of her devotion to Birmingham, the rock was placed in the yard of the 1822 Hunter House.