In 1636 the founder of "Springfield Plantation", William Pynchon, and the settlers that came with him, signed an agreement that stated they would all live in a compact settlement on the east side of the Connecticut River. While this arrangement may have given them some protection from the Indians, who all lived on the west side of the river, it proved to be very inconvenient. The good planting ground was west of the river along both sides of what is now Main Street and, as a result of the agreement, people were forced to plant their crops on the west side of the river but build their houses on the east side.
In 1652, after William Pynchon returned to England, the residents began to ignore the old agreement and homes started to be built on this side of the river.
Eleven acres of this excellent farmland came into the possession of Richard Excell, one of the first settlers on this side of the river. His daughter, Mary, inherited the land and after her 1675 marriage to Henry Rogers, they built their home where the Corson Playground is now situated. The property remained in the Rogers family for over 125 years.
By 1882 part of the 11-acre lot was in the possession of George A. Hill who built a mansion on the site. Mr. Hill, one of the town’s first Fire Commissioners, was very active in community affairs. George and Hill Streets are named for him.
In 1913, after the Hill mansion was destroyed by fire, the Board of Selectmen acquired the property and created a playground. The Park & Playground Commission built a wading pool with a fountain and in later years these were replaced with a larger pool and changing rooms with hot showers were added.
In the 1970s the town enlarged the area by purchasing a piece of land abutting the property for a dollar. In the 1990s a Community Block Grant provided funds for new swings, spinners and an asphalt basketball court. Recently a new modern Water Park was created for the use and enjoyment of the children in the area.
The playground is named for Alice Corson, a caring, devoted teacher and principal in town. She was appointed to the school department in 1914 and taught at Mittineague Grammar School before becoming principal of Main Street School in 1922. She continued as principal of Main Street School until her sudden and unexpected death in 1948. Miss Corson showed care and concern for her pupils in many ways. She was known to provide clothing, seek medical attention and offer help and guidance to her young students.