Hours: Dawn to Dusk
Acres: 3
Ward: 1

History

Cowan Park has the distinction of being one of the first parks in the Radnor Township park system being in existence since the early 1950’s. Cowan Field is formerly known as 'Victory Field'.  This 3 acre park earns its namesake from Leslie Cowan, a Radnor resident who was killed in action in 1945 while fighting during World War II. In the 19th century, before becoming a Township park, Cowan Park was in close proximity to the site of the Wayne Natatorium. The Wayne Natatorium was one of the largest spring fed, open-air, in-ground swimming pools in the United States created by the damming of Gulph Creek, which runs through Cowan Park. The pool measured 500 feet by 100 feet and hosted multiple National Swimming Association Championships. The natatorium closed in 1903 as a result of a drought, which affected the pool’s water supply. After closing, the pool was emptied and back filled. Today, a historical marker is located on the grounds of Cowan Park to remember the significance of the natatorium.

Features & Amenities

Cowan Park is a quiet park nestled into the neighborhood along Radnor Street Road near Willow Avenue. Cowan’s main amenities include the playground, basketball court, and baseball diamond. There is a picnic table and seating area near the playground that is available to reserve for small gatherings. Cowan Park also has a bathroom facility and off street parking is available in the lot across the street from the park. There is parking available for individuals with special needs. Gulph Creek borders the southeastern edge of the park near the basketball court and playground. To help in the reduction of storm water runoff, a rain garden was added next to the bathroom facility in 2013.

Restroom Access

To access the restrooms (April through October), use combination 1-2-3.