Shelter house dedication is July 5
The new shelter house at Peabody City Park will be dedicated in a ceremony at 11 a.m. July 5.
The project was constructed in memory of the late John and Cleo DeForest and was funded by the DeForest family, friends, and the City of Peabody.
Both John and Cleo DeForest were active in community affairs for years.
John DeForest graduated from Peabody High School in 1927. He operated DeForest Hatcheries for 41 years. He also sold real estate in Peabody for 33 years.
DeForest served as mayor of Peabody 12 years, during which time the new municipal swim pool was constructed.
He was a Peabody Kiwanian for decades, and held a perfect attendance record. He also was an active member of Peabody Chamber of Commerce.
John DeForest died in 2002.
In addition to managing the hatchery and raising their children, Cleo was a member of the Peabody Board of Education for 20 years and also was active in many clubs and organizations.
She was instrumental in getting what is now known as Legacy Park to come to Peabody.
Local contractor Arlen Gfeller helped design the shelter house and was the builder.
Limestone has been incorporated in the design so it will blend with Peabody's business buildings and majestic stone structures in the park. Construction was completed the first week of June.
Many members of the DeForest family will be present for the ceremony. The public is invited to attend and share in the dedication.
