Sharon Patch Passport: Hidden Gem

Where weeds once ruled now frequently hosts the game of kings.

As well as individuals and families walking. And during any given Sunday summer afternoon, they gather for concerts.

The site now called Beech Tree Park “was just an overgrown weed patch” and “kind of an eyesore” at the corner of Sharon’s Beach and Pond streets, Recreation Director Brett MacGowan says.

A five-year community effort led by transformed the land next to the town’s resident-only Memorial Park Beach into a park.

“It’s passive recreation. People walk through. There’s a spot for them to sit down,” MacGowan says.

“There’s game tables over there. It’s a great place to watch a concert on a Sunday afternoon. They have a great labyrinth. There’s a peace pole in there. There’s so many tremendous things about Beech Tree Park.”

“It’s a great thing now. You see grandparents pushing their grandkids in strollers and stopping there. It’s a great asset to the town.”

The gazebo began hosting Sunday afternoon summer concerts at the park's 2006 dedication, Mim Gopen said recently.

The Concerts in the Park series runs at 3 p.m. every other Sunday.

The latest concert, featuring Jazz Echo, was Sunday, July 24. The next one is Aug. 7, when Jumpin’ Juba performs at 3 p.m.