SANFORD — In 1929, the citizens of Sanford dedicated Soldiers and Sailors Park to the memory of those who had perished in World War I.

But over the years, the park that was tucked away behind the Edison School, abutting Twombley Road, became an overgrown tangle.

A transformation has taken place in the past few years, however, and on Monday, Memorial Day, veterans and others gathered early in the morning to raise the flag and rededicate the park to the soldiers and sailors, as intended back in 1929.

It was a solemn ceremony. Veterans raised the Stars and Stripes, laid a wreath and Sanford Veterans Memorial Committee Chairman Robert Provost said a few words, giving credit for those who worked to restore the park.

Lt. Ray Knous of the Sanford Salvation Army said a prayer: “We’re privileged to rededicate this park in the memory of those who served and as a town we thank you for their service.”

The park’s origins are vague. Town property tax cards don’t reveal how the town originally came to be in possession of the property. Through the years, it became a jungle of weeds, overgrown trees and brush.

A few years ago, however, property developer Lionel Sevigny bought the former Edison School and transformed the building into apartments. At the same time, he pledged to donate time and materials to help rehabilitate the park.

“It is a nice, hidden gem the town has had all these years,” said Sevigny, following the rededication as a few families took the time to stroll theough the pedestrian trail that wends through the park.

The town’s trails committee became involved, looking to expand the town’s extensive trail system, said member Hazen Carpenter.

One of the benches was donated by the Rivard brothers, in memory of their father, Henry Rivard, who served in the U.S. Navy in World War I. Ron Rivard said his brother  Paul, who lives at Edison School Apartments, helped clear brush ”“ at first by hand. Ron, who keeps Shapleigh’s veterans cemeteries in order, and another brother, Gerry Rivard, brought in a brushcutter to help clear the property. Then they poured the cement pads for the three benches that grace the park.

The veterans committee, reminded of the park’s original intent, set to work. Member James Krause was given the task of raising money for a flagpole and benches, said Provost.

Provost said Krause worked hard on the project.

“He was like a bulldog with a bone,” said Provost.

Krause, who served with the Seebees from 1951 to 1955, said he heard of Soldiers and Sailors Park 30 years ago when he first moved to town, but like many, didn’t know much about it.

When Sevigny began to work, Krause said he didn’t feel it was right that he should have to do it all alone, so he approached individuals and businesses and raised the funds.

“I’m proud to be a part of it,” said Krause. “And it says a lot for the people in town, especially the way the economy is. We’re honoring the fellows and the women who gave their lives.”

— Staff Writer Tammy Wells can be contacted at 324-4444 or twells@journaltribune.com.