Green Space
A Nod to History
Cady Way Park: Trains, Planes & World Records
We envision a green space that tells the rich history of Cady Way.
Trains
A mindful green space that pays homage to Winter Park’s past.
Imagine an original engine from the Dinky Line on display for children to see and for families to gather around to picnic.
Trains: Cady Way Trail Was Once Part of The Dinky Line
According the Rollins College digital collections, Mr. J.H. Abbott was the originator of the idea of a railroad to connect the growing towns of Winter Park and Orlando back in 1886, and the Winter Park Land Company granted the right of way into town. The “Dinky Line” was called this because of the more narrow gauge of the rails, which unfortunately made the train noisy and prone to derailment.
The trip between Orlando and Winter Park measured six miles and took about a half-hour. Later the line was extended to Oviedo, with a spur running by Cady Way Park. (The angle of the railway dictated the angle from the road on which the pool was built.)
The last rails were removed in 1969 and the path was transformed into the current day Cady Way Trail.
Planes
A green space that makes young minds dream and reach for the skies.
Imagine an airplane perched above head, allowing Winter Park to soar to new heights.
Planes: Cady Way Park Once Housed Showalter Airpark
According to the Showalter website, the Showalter family has deep roots in Orlando’s aviation community, going all the way back to 1945. That was when Howard Showalter, his brother J. Sandy Showalter, and their partner Ford “Buck” Rogers moved to Central Florida after serving in the war. The three purchased 100 acres of land in Winter Park, carving out grass runways and opening Showalter Airpark.
The Airpark offered flying lessons in a country club atmosphere. The Showalters were so successful that they expanded their Flying Services to three locations, including Herndon Airport. The Showalter airports gave top service to celebrities such as Elvis, Walt Disney, and even Howard Hughes.
In 1951, Showalter Airpark closed in Winter Park, giving way to the development of the Winter Park Pines, Showalter Field, and Cady Way Park, named after F.W. Cady, who served as the twenty-seventh mayor of Winter Park.
Special Note: In 1966, Howard Showalter was awarded the Carnegie Hero Fund Commission’s bronze medal for heroism.
While vacationing at New Smyrna Beach, Howard spotted a young boy that was caught in the rip tide and went out after him. Howard was a swimmer and former lifeguard and went out after the boy. Eventually an on-duty life guard swam out and took the little boy, but by this time Howard was just too tired to make it back and tragically drowned. In addition to being a hero, Howard highlights the importance of swim lessons for all.
Excellence
An inspiring green space that proves dreams can come true.
For generations, Cady Way has sparked inspiration and nurtured ambition.
Excellence: Cady Way Pool is the Birthplace of Olympians and World Record Holders
In 1966, Olympic swimmer Catie Ball set a world record in the 100m Breaststroke at Cady Way Pool. A generation later, 1996 Olympic swimmer Jilen Siroky got her start in her neighborhood pool, swimming with the Blue Dolfins swim team.
We envision historical plaques noting these notable accomplishments at Cady Way Pool to serve as inspiration for future generations.
Donate Now
Yes! Your donation is tax-deductible!
The Winter Park Blue Dolfins Foundation, Inc. has 501c3, EIN 88-1662511, Public Charity Status 509(a)(2)
Zelle: BDSwimFoundation@gmail.com
This donation is tax deductible.
Venmo: @Blue_Dolfins
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Paypal: BDSwimFoundation@gmail.com
This donation is tax deductible.
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Check: Payable to Winter Park Blue Dolfins Foundation, 201 Flame Ave, Maitland, FL 32751.
Wire Transfer: Call Joe at 407.937.9129 for arrangements.
Cash Donations: Cash donations delivered in person to Leslie Bergquist or Cathy Wertenberger.
Questions? Contact Us!