Sheboygan demolishes Lakeview Park Gazebo
The gazebo was the only remaining element from the early-to mid-twentieth century Lakeview Amusement Park
SHEBOYGAN — The historic gazebo at Lakeview Park on Sheboygan’s south side was razed early Friday morning.
The Department of Public Works had planned to demolish the gazebo, originally built as a bandstand, sometime this summer. According to DPW Director Travis Peterson, the gazebo was intended to be razed during the Sewer Interceptor Construction Project in 2022. However, delays to the construction project postponed the removal. “I can update you, however, that the gazebo is planned to be removed this summer,” said Peterson when WKTS News asked about the status of the project on Wednesday.
Demolition occurred during the early morning hours on Friday, May 30th.
Built in 1926, the frame-constructed, octagonal gazebo features a latticework base and is topped with a low-pitched tent roof that is supported by plain wooden supports. The historic structure had fallen into disappear with the stair access blocked. Along with peeling paint, the railing and portions of the latticework were missing. A light previously hung from the ceiling but is also missing.
In its heyday, summer band concerts were held at the gazebo. Thousands would attend the annual Labor Day Picnic organized by the Sheboygan County Labor Council. The event was moved to Kiwanis Park in 1951. The gazebo was one of two only remaining elements from the early-twentieth century Lakeview Amusement Park. The other is a few crumbling concrete foundations in the northern wooded.
Park improvements planned
The City of Sheboygan has plans to make improvements to the southside park. The improvements were originally scheduled to take place in 2022 to coincide with Sewer Interceptor Construction Project, which has been delayed.
According to the rendering from 2021, the parking lot would be resurfaced and reconfigured. A sidewalk would lead to the existing shelter and restrooms. A shelter would be constructed along the bluff with views of Lake Michigan. When asked when the improvements would take place, Peterson said it was dependent upon processes of federal funding and availability for the project.
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