Fill the Rill

Edwin J Kiest, publisher of the Dallas Times Herald, donated 247 acres of land to the City of Dallas in 1931. Named in memory of his wife Elizabeth, Kiest Park includes over two acres of formal gardens. The WPA built a series of stone constructions: a field house, pavilion, a pergola and a 350 foot water rill during the depression. The rill is one of only two in the state of Texas, and one of only a handful in the entire country.   

Located in the heart of Oak Cliff, Kiest Park bustles with activity. The walking trail encircling the park at 2324 W. Kiest Boulevard is filled with walkers and runners, the ball fields are busy most weekends and many evenings, and the playground area is a magnet for happy little kids and picnicking families. Everything is nearly perfect.  Nearly.  

The historic WPA Water Rill at the center of the Kiest Park formal gardens needs extensive restoration. The estimated cost for the project is just under $300,000.  In a city known for knocking down its history, the restoration price tag for a beautiful historic work of art in a beautiful, historic and highly-used park is well worth the price. The Friends of Oak Cliff Parks is committed to continuing their efforts to improve Kiest Park and is leading the campaign to fund restoration of the Water Rill.   

Won’t you join today and keep the Rill flowing?  The Friends of Oak Cliff Parks is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization and is ready to raise money for this restoration.  Funds can be donated at www.friendsofoakcliffparks.org on the donation page stating RILL.  Checks can also be mailed to:   Friends of Oak Cliff Parks, P.O. Box 210124, Dallas, TX 75211