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Wally's Grove is a special section of
Briant Park that is located at the Northeast corner of the
pond. For a map that illustrates the location in relation to
the park and surrounding vicinity, see the link below. 
The "Grove" is an unmarked
location, so don't look for any signs. Rather, you will find a
group of folks - mostly older and retired - just sitting
around a park picnic bench, spinning yarns. Feel free to join
in.
You're probably wondering where the name
Wally comes from. Walter E. Peterson and his wife Clara were
the nucleus of the group that formed the first denizens of the
Grove. Although he and Clara have passed away, a few of the
group is still loyal to their regular assemblies. Refer
to the "Wally" and "Wally's Grove Photo
Notebook" links below.
We are glad to note that widening of
Briant Park Road to accommodate the additional traffic in and
out of the Lakeside At Briant Park apartments has not
interfered with Wally's Grove. Unfortunately, because of the
construction activity that lasted over two years and the
passing away of several regular visitors, there are few
original denizens left at the old haunt. Even the morning
walkers have deserted the park for the Mall at Short Hills.
However, a group of three of four of the former "Groveys"
is now frequenting a new location at the other end of the park
off Briant Parkway - Wally's Grove South. Stop by and say
hello!
The following is a summary of the
features of this section: |
