At the time of its opening on 7 September 1895, a small stream running through the park formed part of the boundary between the urban districts of Smethwick in Staffordshire and Oldbury in Worcestershire.

Other features were a boathouse with landing stage, a bandstand in the centre of a circular gravelled area and an octagonal refreshment pavilion with a stove for heating and a ventilation turret.

It stated the park was a great asset for the district, as the streets of Black Country towns were "unhealthy, narrow and confined", with meagre provision for green spaces.

A procession of marching bands, civic dignitaries, mounted police, fire brigades, a company from the South Staffordshire Volunteers and representatives of trades unions and other associations made its way from the public hall (now Smethwick Library) to the park, where speeches of thanks were given.

Annual fêtes were held to raise money for the West Smethwick Park Band, which gave regular Sunday and bank holiday concerts during the season.

It said West Smethwick Park was breezy and carried the fumes from several factories, disastrous to some flowers; but the gardeners had learned from experience which plantings would be successful.

Improvements included a café and community rooms within a new pavilion building, installation of outdoor gym equipment, landscaping, restoration of the Chance memorial and stone drinking fountain, entrance gates and piers.

[18] A garden of remembrance was opened in April 1948 by the Mayor, Councillor A Bradford in memory of local people who lost their lives in World War II.