Geroldean Thursby

Geroldean Thursby Memorial Tot Lot

Geroldean Thursby Memorial Tot Lot is a cozy neighborhood spot designed for little ones. Tucked among the surrounding homes, this small but cheerful park offers families a convenient place to play, relax, and spend time outside. With its kid-friendly layout, welcoming green space, and easygoing atmosphere, it’s the kind of park where toddlers take their first wobbly steps, neighbors stop to chat, and parents get a much-needed breath of fresh air. Simple, sweet, and community-centered — it’s a little pocket of fun for the whole block.

Geroldean Thursby Memorial Tot Lot began in 1949, when local neighbors raised $600 to buy a neglected, vacant lot (used for trash and informal parking) and donated it to the city so children would have a safe neighborhood play space.

It was named to honor a 4-year-old child, Geroldean Thursby, who tragically lost her life after a traffic accident while playing in the neighborhood.

City of Elkhart Park Rules

Alcoholic Beverages & Drugs (§ 96.33)
Not allowed in the parks unless you have written permission from the Park Board or its authorized agents.

Animals (§ 96.27)
Please do not harm wildlife or remove eggs or young.
Pets must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet unless you’re in a designated off-leash area.

Camping (§ 96.24)
Camping is not permitted unless you have a valid permit.

Curfew (§ 96.35)
Parks are open from 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. unless otherwise posted.

Drones (§ 96.23)
Drone use is not allowed unless approved by the Park Board or its authorized agents.

Explosives & Weapons (§ 96.22)
Not permitted unless authorized by the Park Board or the Superintendent.

Fires (§ 96.28)
Fires are only allowed where permitted by ordinance.

Littering (§ 96.17)
Please dispose of trash properly. Littering is prohibited.

Peddling (§ 96.25)
Selling goods or services is not allowed without a permit.

Smoking & Vaping (§ 153.72)
Smoking and vaping are not permitted in the parks.

Park Information

Address: N 5th & Brady St., Elkhart
Phone: 574-295-7275
Park Hours: 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Features & Amenities

Playground

Little ones can climb, slide, and explore on the Tot Lot’s bright, kid-friendly playground, designed just for toddlers and young children to play safely and confidently.

Adopt-A-Park

Geroldean Thursby Memorial Tot Lot is available for adoption!

If your business, group, or organization wants to support a local green space, learn more about our Adopt-A-Park program.

Adopt this Park!

Geroldean Thursby Memorial Tot Lot

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