Much of the initial planning and funding of Allentown's park system began in the early 20th century, supported by Harry Clay Trexler, a local industrialist who was inspired by the City Beautiful movement.
J. Franklin Meehan of Philadelphia was the landscape architect who laid out many of the city's first public parks.
Meetings of the Allentown City Council were held about this and several proposals were presented and discussed.
Trexler also facilitated the development of Cedar Creek Park, the Allentown Municipal Golf Course and the Trout Nursery in Lehigh Parkway.
The Harry C. Trexler Trust continues to provide private funding for the maintenance and development of Allentown's public park system.