History Hike with Dana Peck – Tuesday July 10th @ 9am

When Clifford Park was dedicated in 1896, it featured 86 acres of undeveloped land and a prominent main gate with two 6-foot stone pillars and an ornate wrought iron archway with the park’s name on it.

The land and its gates were a gift to the City of Biddeford from the Clifford Family, whose sole request was that there always be signage on the property identifying the park in their memory.

Located on Pool Street, Clifford Park once was a popular spot for generations of mill laborers, whose families gathered there on weekends following a 60-hour work week.

In its heyday (1890s-1920s), the park boasted a performance grandstand and at least two ballparks. But, by 1940, the venue’s popularity waned, its deteriorating attractions were removed and, eventually, the space was reclaimed by the natural landscape.

22 MILES OF HIKING TRAILS

People are rediscovering the park that now offers 140 acres of woods, streams and recreational facilities, 22 miles of hiking trails and a waterfall. Modern ammenites include tennis, pickleball and basketball courts, a playground, skate park, horseshoe pits, picnic areas and seasonal restrooms.