A private group built the big indoor swimming pool here with the idea that it would be supported by membership fees.  Financial difficulties and foreclosure followed.  Harris County bought the pool building and parking lot on six acres of land from the Resolution Trust Corporation in 1990. Precinct 3 renovated the pool and building and Mary Jo Peckham Park for All Children opened in November 1991.

The pool was equipped for the enjoyment of children and older people with limited physical abilities. All of the features added since 1991 have been designed with the same objective in mind.

There have been two additions to the park since 1991 and it now occupies 32 acres.  Additions to the park included: a large playground, miniature golf complex, a large picnic pavilion and a generously-sized, regularly-stocked fishing lake.  Other features of the park are: a lighted walking trail; a gazebo; restrooms; picnic tables and barbeque grills; a tropical fish pond; a community center with exercise room.

The name of this park honors the memory of a woman known for her willingness to help anyone, at any time, in any way she could.  Mary Jo Peckham helped found the Assistance League of Houston.  She was a tireless worker for the American Heart Association; and, a generous member of The Heritage Society, the South Main Baptist Church, the Cancer Fighters of Houston, Covenant House and the Ronald McDonald House.  Mrs. Peckham was born in 1923.  She died in 1991, the same year this park opened.

Mary Jo Peckham
1923 - 1991