From Walton County Tourism:

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony to Celebrate Improvements at Henry Park in DeFuniak Springs

WALTON COUNTY, Fla. – Jan. 6 – The Walton County Board of County Commissioners, Beach Operations and Tourism departments will host a ribbon cutting ceremony celebrating the completion of improvements to Henry Park, a beloved historic landmark in the heart of DeFuniak Springs. The ceremony will take place Thursday, Jan. 15, at 11 a.m., at 1162 Circle Dr., in DeFuniak Springs, and include a brief presentation highlighting the park’s rich history and recent improvements.

This milestone marks the first capital improvement project funded by the North Walton Tourist Development Tax, a vital resource dedicated to enhancing infrastructure and promoting tourism throughout North Walton County. Implemented in March 2021, the North Walton TDT is a 3% tax applied to short-term rental accommodations of six months or less, including hotels, townhomes and campgrounds.

Since its inception, the tax, which is not paid by residents, has played a key role in supporting projects that benefit both residents and visitors. The Henry Park improvements exemplify the positive impact of this initiative on the local community, according to Beach Operations Director Josh Ervin.

Henry Park is named in honor of Dr. George P. Henry, the first mayor of DeFuniak Springs. Historically, the park served as a welcoming gateway between the Hotel Chautauqua and guests arriving by train, offering a vibrant space for visitors from near and far. During the Chautauqua era, the park was a lively gathering spot where bands performed, greeting travelers and adding to the festive atmosphere of the time.

Henry Park also holds special significance as a backdrop for the late Pappy Neal McCormick and his band, the Hawaiian Troubadours, a pioneering figure in steel guitar music and a beloved local personality. McCormick played a pivotal role in popularizing the steel guitar in the Southeastern United States and contributed greatly to the music scene during the mid-20th century. A historic photo of McCormick’s band, taken at Henry Park, was provided by History of DeFuniak Springs.

The ceremony will also honor the legacy of Robert Nelson, a dedicated community leader whose vision and determination were instrumental in bringing this project to life. Known for his motto, “Let’s just get some things done!”, Nelson’s tireless efforts to revitalize Henry Park leave a lasting impact that continues to inspire the community.

For more information, please contact Beach Operations at (850) 267-4578.