Alfred Sharp designed most of the pathways and lawns in the upper part of the reserve in the style of a picturesque garden this included the Rotunda lawn. Having said that Sharp’s designs were not fully accomplished, essentially the ideas remained the same, but the execution was slight adjusted, as such the Rotunda placement and the types of trees planted in the park were not to his design. The lawn was established in the 1890s with the Rotunda being added later on in 1898. The large area of grassland that you will walk across, is now scattered with Norfolk Island pine trees and large fig trees which was against Sharp’s initial recommendations however they are now flourishing.
Because of Newcastle’s largely British born inhabitants there was certain attachment in the enjoyment of brass bands; the Rotunda enabled those visiting the park to take pleasure and escape life through music being performed in the Rotunda. Up until 1937 King Edward Park was the main grounds for civil ceremonies such as state visits, ANZAC day services and other official celebrations or festivities. And today it continues to provide entertainment and leisure activities for the public such as outdoor weddings and picnics adding to the culture and appreciation of Newcastle.
