Hummingbird Park

A cherished community lawn with picnic tables and large shade trees named for the Montford neighborhood’s iconic hummingbird symbol.

Features

• Open space
• Picnic tables

Parties and Rentals

Special permits may be required to schedule ongoing use, add elements to the park such as tents and inflatables, or host a special event for more than 50 people

History

In 1996, 127 Montford neighbors presented a petition to dedicate a vacant lot with a sinkhole and downed trees as a natural park. Located on the corner of Cumberland and Starnes avenues, the lot had been acquired by the City of Asheville as part of the Head of Montford urban redevelopment project. Asheville City Council officially designated the land for a park that summer.

Montford’s familiar hummingbird logo was developed by Hull and Hogan in the late 1970s as a way to unite the neighborhood that had recently been added to the National Register of Historic Places. It can still be seen hanging on many Montford homes. Residents considered Starnes Park and Starland, but ultimately chose Hummingbird Park as the name in honor of their longtime mascot.

The park is a well-maintained greenspace with a rolling lawn, large trees, stone walls, and picnic tables. Neighbors have maintained a community garden off and on over the years. With its wide open space, it’s not uncommon to see community members of all ages enjoying a picnic with friends, tossing a frisbee, or practicing yoga.

Do you have photos or stories to share about Hummingbird Park? Please send them to cbubenik@ashevillenc.gov so the City of Asheville can be inspired by the past as we plan our future.

Photo and Image Credits

1. Hummingbird Park is mostly open space with a shaded picnic area.
2. Montford’s hummingbird logo can be seen throughout the neighborhood and on official communications from Montford Neighborhood Association.