Earl E. T. Smith Park

In 1987, the Preservation Foundation of Palm Beach transformed what was once a modest gas station and parking lot in the Town Hall Historic District into an intimate public park honoring the Foundation’s founding Chairman, Ambassador Earl E.T. Smith.

Since its dedication in 1989, Earl E.T. Smith Preservation Park has been a noteworthy illustration of the Preservation Foundation’s community-oriented goals. Owned and maintained by the Foundation, this public space is located directly west of Town Hall in the heart of the historic district.

A longtime resident and civic leader, Ambassador Smith devoted his life to serving both Palm Beach and his country—holding appointments from four U.S. presidents, including his tenure as U.S. Ambassador to Cuba and Mayor of Palm Beach. As the Foundation’s first Chairman, his vision helped define the town’s modern preservation movement.

Today, the park’s Mediterranean-inspired architecture and lush native landscaping provide a serene escape for residents and visitors alike. Its layout remains true to the Garden Club’s 1929 plan for a town square, preserving the area’s historic rhythm while creating a green space that invites reflection and community connection.

Restored as part of the Foundation’s 40th Anniversary Celebration, Earl E.T. Smith Preservation Park continues to embody the organization’s mission—to safeguard Palm Beach’s architectural heritage while enriching the daily life of its residents. It stands not only as a tribute to a remarkable leader, but as a living symbol of the town’s enduring character.