Stark Park is named in honor of New Hampshire’s most prominent Revolutionary War hero, General John Stark, who is remembered for his words “Live free or die: Death is not the worst of evils,” the first portion of which became the New Hampshire state motto. Stark Park is built around the original Stark burial plot, on land that was once part of the Stark family farm. This is the resting place of John Stark, his wife, and a few of their children – one can still visit the headstones today. In 1896, this plot of land was expanded to 30 acres and became a neighborhood park and a historic treasure. The “Friends of Stark Park” nonprofit organization is responsible for maintaining the park. In addition to the burial plot, there is a large equestrian statue of the General (dedicated in 1948) and several models of cannons and cannonballs. The gazebo-style Hecker-Hastings Bandstand was built in 2009 and is a place where local bands perform perform during the summer. The bandstand is also a popular wedding venue.
Weddings
Set amid the splendor of Manchester's North End neighborhood, Stark Park is the crown jewel of the Manchester park system and a beautiful outdoor venue for weddings of all sizes. At the center of the beautifully landscaped grounds overlooking the Merrimack River with views of the Uncanoonuc Mountains is the gazebo-style Hecker-Hastings Bandstand, built in 2009, which is the perfect ceremony setting. For additional information, including reservation information, visit: http://www.friendsofstarkpark.org/Weddings.aspx