Mill Ends Park is a charming and unique attraction located in the heart of Portland, Oregon. Despite its small size, this park has an incredible story to tell. In fact, it holds the Guinness World Record for being the smallest park in the world, measuring just 452 square inches!
The history of Mill Ends Park dates back to the early 20th century when it was originally intended to be the site of a light pole. However, due to a miscommunication between the city and the contractor, the pole was never installed. Instead, the area was left as a small patch of land in the middle of a busy intersection.
In 1948, a local journalist named Dick Fagan took matters into his own hands and transformed the neglected patch of land into a park. Fagan, who worked for the Oregon Journal, started writing a column about the park and its imaginary inhabitants, including a leprechaun named Patrick O’Toole. He even planted flowers and installed a miniature Ferris wheel in the park.
Over the years, Mill Ends Park has become a beloved landmark in Portland. It has hosted numerous events, such as weddings, concerts, and even a Guinness World Record attempt for the world’s smallest parade. The park has also been beautifully decorated for various holidays, including Christmas and St. Patrick’s Day.
Despite its small size, Mill Ends Park is a testament to the creativity and ingenuity of the people of Portland. It serves as a reminder that even the tiniest spaces can be transformed into something beautiful and meaningful. So, the next time you visit Portland, make sure to stop by Mill Ends Park and experience its magic for yourself.