This 'rather prim municipalised open space', as described by the local historian Barbara Denny, derives from land obtained by the local council from nurserymen and from the estate that was once owned by the Sullivan family (hence Sullivan Court etc.) of which Sir Arthur Sullivan was a member. The family bought Broom House in 1823 but later lived in Elysium Court nearer Fulham High Street. The nursery was the business of the Rench family in the 17th century when Benjamin Rench is claimed to have cultivated the first Pine Strawberry, Chinese Strawberry and Auricula in this country. His son claimed the Moss Rose as one of his developments but this was disputed by a near neighbour, John Ord of Ravensworth House.

Ms Denny also records that the opening of the park was 'enlivened by the gates sticking, which prevented the crowds from entering, and by the mayor performing his duty without his chain of office because the key of the Town Hall strong room, in which it was kept, had been mislaid.'

O/S Co-ords:2555.7601
Source(s):

A History of Fulham