An article in the July 30, 1998 Sebree Banner has the headline "City Landmark Falls to Wrecking Ball." With the Banner's permission, here are some abstracts from the article."A piece of Sebree history disappeared last week when the gazebo at Sebree Springs Park was demolished as crews worked on correcting a drainage problem that has long affected the park proper."
The gazebo is said to have been built in the 1880's and was a significant feature of the park. Several residents contacted the Banner with questions about why the gazebo was razed and who made the decision to do so. The Banner received information on Thursday morning that Sebree Mayor Ron Todd apparently ordered the demolition as part of the work being done at the park.
Sebree Springs Park, once known as Chalybeate Springs, was a famed resort. Many years ago the Sebree Cornet Band gave Sunday afternoon concerts in the gazebo. In her book, Sebree...then and now,* author Louise Fleming says water from the springs "was highly recommended by all leading physicians in this part of the county for kidney and bladder diseases, as well as stomach ailments and rheumatism. The water was bottled and shipped to all parts of the county...". The gazebo is pictured in the book on page 371.
Some council members contacted by the Banner said they knew nothing about the gazebo being razed until after the fact. The Banner did learn that the work at the park was discussed at the July Chamber of Commerce meeting, although officers said no final decision was made on the matter at that meeting. The Chamber of Commerce is the organization which has overseen work at the park for the past several years.
Council members were hopeful the city will rebuild the gazebo with grant money, although numerous grants have been applied for in the past and none have ever been received. Estimated cost of renovation to the struction was $10,000.
A spokesman from Alcan Ingot, Inc. said last week that the aluminum plant had donated $12,000 to the city recently for work on the park, with $6,000 designated for renovation of the gazebo and $6,000 to help fix the drainage problem. Alcan officials were unaware the gazebo had been razed until they were contacted by the Banner.
*Ordering information for Louise Fleming's Webster County books:HEYDAY OF ONTON, index, 350p. hardcover, - $40.00 + $3.00 shipping
SEBREE...THEN AND NOW, index, 474p. hardcover - $35.00 + $3.00 shipping
STORY OF SLAUGHTERSVILLE, index, 540p. hardcover - $40.00 + $3.00 shipping
KY residents add 6% tax.
Order from: Louise P. Fleming, Dept. M, 741 State Route 147, Slaughters, KY 42456-9205