Charles Schifferdecker acquired a large dairy farm in the early 1900s and proceeded to build his spectacular
Electric Park in 1909. The park featured incredible roller coaster rides, towers, bandstands, and concessions stands, all brilliantly lit with thousands of electric lights. There were lagoons for swimming and boating, a zoo, and sculptured gardens. The electric trolley lines transported pleasure-seekers to and from the park throughout the day. On November 1, 1913 Schifferdecker deeded the park over to the City of Joplin; it eventually grew to a total of 160 acres.