Henry Garnsey Canine Recreation Park was an idea conceived by Tim Dumas who, at that time was 15 years old, a resident of Medway and a dog lover.  Tim recognized that because of tough leash laws, dogs in Medway had no place to go to get the exercise they really need.  Tim's dream was to build a park where dogs could run free, unleashed, and not be in violation of the Town's leash law.  Tim planned to make this a community service project to complete a requirement for him to advance in rank to Eagle Scout.  Tim undertook the research and planning all the details for such a facility.  After much planning, he sought approvals from the various town boards and received unanimous approval from the Medway Board of Selectmen in the fall of 2001.  With support from his family and friends, Tim undertook the laborious task of gathering materials and enlisting volunteers.  His father, Gary Dumas, assisted Tim by helping him manage and coordinate this enormous project.  They discovered many local businesses, organizations, and citizens in Medway extremely willing to offer their services and financial support for Henry Garnsey Canine Recreation Park. 

Tim's plans included the preservation a piece of Medway history by protecting the historical landmark at the park.  Permission was granted by the Medway Parks Commissioners and the Medway Board of Selectmen to allow Tim to back fill a stone foundation with sand to prevent further erosion and collapse.  The top stone layer of the foundation will remain in view.  This foundation marks the site of the home of Medway's first settler, Henry Garnsey, circa 1700.  The stone foundation will be fenced in to further preserve the site.  Adjacent is a three sided wooden structure which will serve as a message board and an emergency storm shelter from the elements while at the park.  It is fitting the park is named in honor of Mr. Garnsey.

Phase three of Tim's plans are underway.  "The Star Spangled Banner" now waves at the intersection of Village and Cottage Streets in the first phase of what is going to be a memorial park for noteworthy town residents. Memorial Committee Chairman Col. Michael Matondi has been working with Tim Dumas to bring us this phase of the park. The final sketch for the park depicts a brick walkway to a fountain with two plaques for those who have served in the fire and police departments.  Future monuments may include recognizing deceased residents who made outstanding contributions to the town of Medway and Massachusetts residents who died in the Sept. 11th terrorist attacks.  The town is on a waiting list to get a piece of the World Trade Center.

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The hard work of this young man has paid off because now, thanks to the hard work of Tim Dumas, the residents of Town of Medway can enjoy Henry Garnsey Canine Recreation Park along with their dogs.

To learn more about the accomplishments of this young man as it relates to this dog park, click here for more...