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Hermance: Bristol's Boat/Water Park -
and was the first Town park acquired by Bristol in 1959.
The Park was presented to the Town by the Bristol Conservation
Club in time to hold that year's Bristol Homecoming. Profits from the
Homecomings were used to further develop the park. The Park was named for
Bud Hermance, a long-time Bristol resident and one-time Town Marshal.
The Park remained the site of the Bristol Homecoming for a number of
years, prior to the acquisition of Congdon Park, located directly across the river.
A number of events are held here, including the yearly Bridge to Bridge Race
in September, and the United States Canoe Assoc 2008 Nationals, which will be held
at Hermance Park on August 5-10, and is expected to attract visitors from all over
the United States and Canada to local restaurants and campgrounds.
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Hermance Park Bristol, Indiana
Hermance Park, down town Bristol, at the north end of Apollo Street
(below River Inn) is north of S.R. 120 on south side of the St. Joseph River
where it joins the Little Elkhart River. The 5 acre plot, originally low land
can flood at times.
Director Elizabeth Hausbach runs the free 2008 Summer Kids' Park Program at Hermance
Park in June and July with assistant Adriana Largotte. Between 16-25 children enjoy crafts
and games at Hermance, and eat their sack lunches at Congdon Park.
They visit places like the Library, Museum and Post Office before returning to Hermance Park.
There is a two week hiatus in July.
The park includes a pavilion that rents for events such as wedding
receptions and family reunions. It is equipped with a kitchen, restrooms, tables
and chairs to accomodate between 125 and 150 persons.
South and west of the pavilon there is a a grassy area with picnic tables,
a grill new playground equipment, and several park benches that line the river bank.
The Park adjoins the I.D.N.R. owned St. Joseph River access and share a graveled parking
lot. Since this is a widely used river public access site, there are two boat ramps.
The parking lot and river access were updated by the I.D.N.R. in September, 2004.
For pavilion rental information, call 574-848-7007. No reservations are required to use
the other park facilities.
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