Mary Elizabeth Sharpe Park

Mary E. Sharpe Memorial Park is a small public green space located in the historic district of Providence, Rhode Island. The park, dedicated in 1989, was created from an abandoned lot that had previously been an eyesore in the heart of the city. It is situated on Benefit Street in the historic district.

The park was designed to preserve a rare urban green space and to sustain the habitats of birds and butterflies in the city environment. It features native, sustainable plant material, which enhances the natural landscape and provides visual appeal to the streetscape. The design was created by Sara Bradford, FSLA of Bradford Associates, with funding raised by The Perennial Planters, a local garden club.

Mary E. Sharpe Memorial Park is named in honor of Mary Elizabeth Evans Sharpe, a civic activist and member of The Perennial Planters. Sharpe was known for her efforts in creating India Point Park from the former Providence waterfront area. The park serves as a fitting tribute to her tireless work on behalf of the city.

The park includes a low sitting wall and steps leading up to an Anemone and Hosta Garden, which is concealed behind hemlocks to maintain the impression of a natural landscape. In 1997, a handsome wrought-iron fence was added behind the sitting wall, further enhancing the park's aesthetics.

Today, Mary E. Sharpe Memorial Park continues to provide a peaceful green space for visitors and residents alike, exemplifying sound stewardship of the urban landscape in Providence.