Since the beginning on the town of Dallas Center in 1869, Mound Park has been a recreation area available to each generation of residents and their families.  Picnic areas with shelter houses have been established, fireplaces built, playground equipment has been installed and kept up to date.  At one time there was a wading pool for youngsters, a bandstand for concerts and special programs in the park.  Fourth of July celebrations were held there, complete with the merry-go-round and calliope and other attractions.  Chautauqua tents, circus tents, and revival meeting tents have been erected in the park.  It became a virtual tent city in 1917 and 1918 as workers lived there while the first streets of the town were being paved.  At present, there is a roller skating rink and the most recent addition is a tennis court.  For quite a number of years, summer recreation programs have been held with the cooperation of civic groups and others interested in the activities of the young people.

          Circuses have long been fascinating to both young and old.  As early as 1876 and 1878, the Cole Brothers Circus performed in Dallas Center.  For 75 years, until the early 1930's, the Orton Brothers family circus wintered at the Orton farm five miles south of town.  The animals were trained there.  At one time there were 31 (continued on next page)

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