The monument to Magellan was funded by public donation by Governor General Narciso Claveria.

The monument was supposed to be erected in Cebu, near the environs where Magellan perished, however it was built near the Isabel II gate and the Puente de España.

[2] Due to its proximity to the Pasig river, a major water thoroughfare at the time, many shipments of coal, lumber and other government apparatuses were stored in its vicinity.

These supplies were transferred to Calle Nozaleda (now Gen. Luna st.) allowing open access to the park in 1906.

[3] The Paseo had been a loading dock for passenger boats, and a favorite among passersby talking their constitutionals.