This is an image of Washington Park in 1950. These parks were important in adding green space to the city. The southern cities are characterized by their rural appearance, in contrast to northern cities. These parks also provided recreational space for people to be able to play sports and take part in outdoor activities. Like most other aspects of the city of Atlanta during this time period, parks were segregated for whites and blacks. This particular park was the first African-American park in Atlanta, which was built in 1922.