In 1912, the city purchased the old assembly grounds for a park. (former campgrounds for the Chautauqua movement--do a 'search') In 1919, 'Monona Park' was opened up to tourists for camping, making it the first municipal camp east of the Rocky Mountains. The 'old barn' during those days was used as a dance hall. This is one of the few remaining buildings connected with Madison's heyday as a resort community. In 1923, the Common Council renamed the park Olin Park in honor of John Olin the founder of the Madison Park and Pleasure Drive.