Play for All

Most lifetime residents of Somerville remember the Recreation Department for its Summertime Playgrounds, but the phrase "Play for all - adults, youth, and children" exemplifies the mission of this department.  As the Sommerville Journal reported on June 24, 1954, "Somerville needs no wordy introduction to its summer playground season. The play circuit is recognized as one of the finest on the Eastern Seaboard.”  Yet, the Recreation Department has provided many more recreational and play activities for residents of all ages including outdoor games and sports leagues, theater groups, and an active Senior Citizens Club.

The range of the Recreation Department is exemplified in the oral history with Richard Liberatore, Acting Chair of the Recreation Commission and longtime Somerville resident.