Where Was the Rockery Located at Sparks Park in Jackson?

Before I get to the Sparks Rockery in Jackson, I need to preface it.

There is an old stone mansion in Dowagiac – referred to as the “Lee Mansion” - that has been dubbed “The Rockery”. It was built in the 1890s for the president of the Round Oak Stove Company, Fred Lee and his wife.

The fieldstone used in construction was harvested locally and the house features impressive hardwood ceilings, floors, and walls. With eight fireplaces, it wasn’t too difficult to keep the place warm and cozy during the cold winters.

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Over the years after Mr. & Mrs. Lee passed away the mansion has been sold and re-sold. In the early 2020s it was used as an apartment complex, and later re-sold to new owners...and that where the info on Lee Mansion stands.

I came across this information while trying to find details on a place of interest called “The William Sparks Rockery” in Jackson. To my dismay, all I could find were numerous images of the same old 1940s postcard that read on the back, “Jackson’s parks are among the finest in any city of twice its size. Particularly outstanding are the Sparks Foundation with its world famous Cascades, its golf course, winding canals, and ponds, picnic spots, and lovely gardens.”

Okay, fine...but where’s the info on The Rockery? Just what was its location? Was it near The Cascades or over in Ella Sharp Park?

The postcard depicts the William Sparks Rockery as a beautiful, peaceful place to spend time on any given afternoon. More than likely it’s all gone now, but now my curiosity needs to know just what the location was.

So I’m reaching out and asking: can anyone can give us the location?
It would be appreciated!

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