East Hill, Pensacola

Andalusia Square is a recreational park located in Pensacola, Florida’s East Hill neighborhood within the block of East Cervantes and East Gadsden Streets between North 15th and North 16th Avenues. The park was established prior to 1884.

This historical map of Pensacola’s “New City” was produced by a state surveyor from Florida named W.F. Lee and reviewed by W.H. Davison. Davison was Pensacola’s local city surveyor during this time. Research shows that prior to World War II this area was simply an open space at and offered few recreational options for citizens. Additions to Andalusia Square were slowly added in after World War II beginning around 1950. The park’s post-World War II additions included benches, sidewalks, and playground equipment.

The park received further benefits during the years of 2007 and 2008, including new benches, improved sidewalks, playground equipment, a Central Square and a Light Pole. The 1,200 square foot Central Square in the middle of the park is made out of brick pavers, and the constructing was completed in November of 2008 by Waters General Contractor. This park also displays a Light Pole within the previously mentioned Central Square. This project was completely installed during the same period of 2008 by Lee Smith Builders. The sidewalk work was simultaneously completed by Willie Palmer Concrete, and the sidewalks are engraved with the street names of the corresponding block. The Department of Parks and Recreation in Pensacola has played a key role in maintaining Andalusia Square as well as funding improvements to the park. Another special piece to the park’s history is the physical landscape.

Maps and photos produced prior to the new additions show that many of the same trees and landscaping are still in the park today. This includes oak trees of various species, palm trees, Arbutus bushes, Magnolia trees, and more. Although modern times have seen the majority of improvements, Andalusia Square has allotted the citizens of East Hill and Pensacola with various recreational alternatives in a beautiful, classy, and spacious setting since at least 1884.