Ma Riis Park

This park situated between Town Hall and the Harrison Library, is dedicated to Genevieve Riis, known affectionately as “Ma” Riis. Originally named Station Park, Riis was dedicated in 1988 “For Extraordinary and Devoted Service to Members of the Armed Forces During and After World War II.” Riis volunteered over 10,000 hours of her time at the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial Veterans Hospital located in Montrose, NY. A monument in her honor is located in front of the Veterans’ Honor Roll momument. This monument lists the names of men and women who have served in World War I, World War II, Korean War, Vietnam War, Desert Storm, Afghan War and lists over 300 names.

The space in this small park is utilized well. In addition to a playground and adequate green space, you can walk around and see many plaques and monuments dedicated to past residents. A World War doughboy erected in 1939 lists the names of 300 Harrison men and women who served. A special memorial was built to recognize all Harrison first responders who responded to Ground Zero during 9/11. In 2019, a gazebo was erected in honor of past Town Clerk, Joseph Acocella, Jr. Who can also walk the perimeter path to see the names of individual past municipal employees who have had a tree planted in their memory.

Learn more about Ma Riis here: https://www.harrisonpl.org/harrison-remembers/collections/show/15