PHOTO ALBUMS

NEEDS TO BE RESTORED: Rock Island

The rock garden’s pond, island and bench on the north side of the original Lilac Park on Highway 100 and Minnetonka Boulevard survived road construction.

Known as Monkey Island or Hidden Park, we prefer the name Rock Island Park. Now hidden behind a sound wall, there’s growing interest to restore these historical Lilac Way structures. Learn more.

Rock Island, 1939

This is the only photo we have found

This 1939 MnDOT photo of the northern Rock Island area of the original Lilac Park on Minnetonka Boulevard shows the rock garden and oval pool. The homes behind the park are on Toledo Avenue.

Rock Island, 2018

Tucked safely behind a sound wall, this hidden gem is just waiting to be restored. There is growing community interest to save this historical park.

Rock Island, 2009

Our cleanup day included sweeping and planting wildflower seeds. But in July, a crew of tree trimmers mistakenly cut down the brush and trees that hid this Lilac Way park from public view.

Rock Island, 2007

Overgrown and covered with leaves, these fall photos show the park’s hidden features. Built in 1939, it is a piece of history.

Rock Island, 2004

John McHugh, City of St. Louis Park Information Resources, sent us these photos, showing this overgrown and mostly forgotten Lilac Way park.