Ellis Park History

Ellis Park was developed at the old Ellis School site in Franklin Township, Rowan County. Ellis School was first built in 1933 as a Work Projects Administration (WPA) project, one of President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s "New Deal" programs. The most important part of this construction was that the community provided the building materials and lots of labor. Residents cut trees from their property, had them sawn, and gave the lumber for the project. 

Ellis School

Throughout the history of the Ellis School the community has supported this site. First as a school for the area and now as a community park. In 1971, through the efforts of the Ellis Community Center, Inc., the Ellis School was saved and was purchased by the Rowan County Board of Commissioners to used as a park under the guidance of the Rowan County Parks and recreation Committee. The citizens of the Ellis Community went to work providing labor and some materials to refurbish this property, just as they did in 1933 when they helped build Ellis School.

Recreational Activities

Today, Ellis Park provides the entire Salisbury and Rowan County area with a first rate recreational experience. The ball fields are used extensively by both kids and adults. The old school house serves as a banquet hall for many citizens. Ceramics classes, karate classes, and the 4-H horse program use the facilities at Ellis Park.The Therapeutic Recreation Program as well as Senior Games and Silver Arts Program all use this park.

Come out and see for yourself how this community park can fulfill your needs.