A memorial playground named in remembrance of two young girls, located in Frederick, continues to grow and inspire others. Sophie and Madigan’s Playground was started by the Lillard Family after the passing of two of their daughters. They wanted to create something that was emblematic of their daughters’ spirit and allow other families to enjoy time with their children, and so they began raising funds, planning, and constructing the playground.

The Ausherman Family Foundation recently gave Sophie and Madigan’s Playground a second installment to help with the creation of the playground. This playground focuses not just on memorializing the girls’ playful spirit, but also on being an inclusive, trendsetting playground for the community and nation. The design thoughtfully includes equipment and surfaces that are friendly to all levels of mobility. The ground, for example, is Pour in Place (PIP) which is smooth and prevents tripping hazards. Additionally, since this is a hard, solid surface (unlike mulch) the PIP allows opportunities for colorful art to be drawn on the ground.

Since its opening, Sophie and Madigan’s Playground has seen roughly 25,000 visitors a month! The recent Community Benefit Project Grant from the Ausherman Family Foundation will allow the playground to expand and continue to provide inclusive architecture for the community’s youth.

​

“Wonder Land,” Phase 2 of Sophie and Madigan’s Playground