Town of Danville, Indiana

As the population of Danville grew, Ellis Park grew to meet the recreational needs of its citizens. A variety of ball fields were built, shelters were constructed, and playground equipment was installed. The pool, which has been a centerpiece of the park's various recreational activities, was rehabbed in 1982 and the complex was renamed Gill Pool in honor of William T. Gill who gathered community support and led the charge for the pool's initial construction in 1959. In 2005 the Gill Pool was completely reconstructed and renamed the Gill Family Aquatic Center. This new leisure pool offers zero entry, spray ground, lazy river, vortex, and two over 125 ft. water slides.

Another popular feature in Ellis Park is the amphitheater. Provided by the White Lick Arts Foundation in 1988, the amphitheater adds another dimension to the park's growing versatility. This outdoor venue allows a wide range of musical guests to entertain the community during the summer months.

For most young children, their favorite attraction at Ellis Park is the Playscape. Funding for this project began with grants from Lilly and the White Lick Heritage Community Foundation which was then matched by public donations. The  Playscape was completely constructed using only volunteer manpower during a six-day span in 1998. It offers a unique environment for children to play, explore, and stretch their imaginations.

Mrs. Jeanette Blanton and family donated 53 acres of woodland to the Town of Danville in 1993.  The property is comprised of lower floodplain, upland forest and open meadows.  Mrs. Blanton donated the land with the agreement that it would be strictly used for nature study.  She asked that no "active recreational" areas ever be built on the property.  The property was named "Blanton Woods Nature Park".  In the year 2000, after the passing of Mrs. Blanton, the town was offered the purchase of her home and another 20 acres.  So, the town council agreed to buy the property.  That house is now known as the Blanton House Conference and Retreat Center.  The house is available for weddings, retreats, meetings, and small parties.  In 2003, the park department purchased land off of Columbia Street to physically join together Blanton Woods and Ellis Park.  At that point in time a $150,000 pedestrian bridge was erected over White Lick Creek.  Thousands of hikers have enjoyed walking to and from both parks.  The Blanton Estates are truly one of Danville's finest assets.