Broderick Park has undergone a lot of changes over the years. It has seen significant improvements, many of which I documented back in 2021. Not only is the park a place for sightseeing and recreation, it’s also a historic location that once served as an integral final stopping point along the United States route of the Underground Railroad. The Black Rock Ferry facilitated Freedom Seekers’ journey from the US to Canada.
Because of its historic significance, the name of Broderick Park is being changed to Freedom Park, to better tell the story of the black freedom movement and hard-fought civil rights. Buffalo’s Common Council has officially approved the renaming of the park via a resolution.
The resolution passed by the Common Council includes the following key points:
- Formally Renaming the Park: Broderick Park is officially renamed “Freedom Park,” effective immediately.
- Updating Signage and Records: The Department of Public Works will update all park signage, and relevant agencies will update their records and directories to reflect the park’s renaming.
- Official Notifications: The City Clerk will send a copy of this resolution to various departments, including the Erie County Department of Environment and Planning, Erie County Department of Real Property Tax Services, City Planning Board, Department of Assessment and Taxation, Division of Engineering of the Department of Public Works, and the main branch of the United States Post Office in Buffalo, NY.
“This renaming signifies a significant step towards honoring the Park’s legacy as a beacon of freedom,” said Buffalo Common Council Majority Leader David A. Rivera, Niagara District. “We acknowledge the importance of preserving history and are committed to recognizing the sacrifices made by those who sought freedom through this route.”
The decision to rename the park was agreed upon by the Friends of Broderick Park, the Broderick Family, and the citizens of Buffalo. To ensure that the legacy of Michael Broderick – one of the founders of the West Side Rowing Club – remains intact, there will be a commemorative memorial installed at the site.
“Once again, I am grateful to the Broderick family for recognizing the historical significance of this park and supporting its change in name to reflect that significance. However, we do not want to forget about the impact that Michael Broderick had on this community, and we seek to continue to honor his legacy. I pledge to work with the Broderick family to honor Michael Broderick in this very same park so that we all may remember the monumental influence this one individual had on his community.”
Freedom Park is located at the foot of West Ferry – 3 Bird Island Pier and 92 West Ferry Street.
