Johnson’s Local Park provides nearby residents with several recreational spaces, including a playground, a softball field, and tennis courts. M-NCPPC acquired this 10-acre park in 1974.
The land that is now Johnson’s Park has a deep and significant history connected to the African American community of Emory Grove. Founded in 1864 when formerly enslaved people bought tracts of land here, Emory Grove became well-known for religious camp meetings. Worshippers came in the August heat for sermons, singing, and food and fellowship underneath the grove of oak trees still providing shade in the park today. Businessman Edward “Beans” Johnson bought the grounds in 1947. He added a dance hall and a lighted baseball field, complete with a grandstand and concessions. At a time when racial restrictions blocked African Americans from fair access to parks and recreation, Johnson’s Park was a hub of social and community life.
Learn more about the history of Johnson’s Park on the park’s history webpage. There you can also listen to audio clips featuring firsthand accounts and download transcripts.
Park Features
- Basketball courts, (2)
- Football field
- Interpretive signs (3)
- Listening station (1) (audio and transcripts available here)
- Picnic shelter with grill
- Playground
- Softball field
- Tennis courts, (2)
- Water fountain
Rent a Picnic Shelter at Johnson’s Local Park
Picnic shelter reservations are first-come, first-served and are available to rent from April 1 to October 31.
To reserve a shelter, create an online account through Active Montgomery
Or you can call the Montgomery Parks Permit Office at 301-495-2525 from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday – Friday.