(Third in a series on local recreational areas. Check our website for earlier profiles of Cook and Mayfield Parks)
by Wesley Harris
Duncan Park sits in a historically significant neighborhood tied closely to the legacy of Lincoln High School, Ruston’s African American high school established in the late 19th century. Founded in 1885 and chartered in 1891, the school that eventually received the name “Lincoln High” began when local black citizens with support from white neighbors sought quality moral, literary, and industrial education within a segregated system.
The original Lincoln High School building stood across from what is now Duncan Park in the Washington Heights neighborhood. Before it received the name Lincoln, the school was called the Washington Heights School or Washington High School.
Lincoln High was consolidated with Ruston High in the seventies and the old school property has been repurposed by the Lincoln Parish School Board. Today, there’s a historical marker on Arlington Street across from Duncan Park to honor the educators, students, and leaders who shaped the neighborhood’s history.
Visiting Duncan Park offers a chance to reflect on this neighborhood’s journey—from one of the first subdivisions built for African American citizens to educational landmark to modern recreational greenspace. It’s come a long way from the days of segregated facilities. Until the early 1970s, Ruston’s African American citizens had to visit what is now the park to swim in a city pool and the nearby branch library to check out a book. Separate facilities were eliminated by 1975.
Managed by the City of Ruston’s Parks & Recreation, Duncan Park spans roughly 12 acres along Arlington Street. In addition to the park itself, the Rock Island Greenway is nearby, offering a chance to walk, jog, or bike through the length of Ruston.
While the park offers a full-sized basketball court, and a lighted softball/baseball field, its greatest assets may be its huge open areas where kids can run to their hearts’ content. That means plenty of room for kicking a soccer ball around, throwing a football, or playing games.
More recent additions of a splash pad and a shaded playground make the park a nice destination for families who want to escape the summer heat. The perimeters of the open areas are dotted with pecan, oak, and bald cypress trees. Restroom facilities and plenty of parking are available.
A pavilion is available and can be reserved for group gatherings while courts and individual picnic tables are first‑come, first‑served.
When enjoying Duncan Park—as with all Ruston parks—visitors should follow standard city park guidelines. The park is only open between sunrise and sunset. Pets must be leashed.
Duncan Park uniquely blends recreation with reflection—offering a peaceful, family‑friendly space intertwined with deep educational and cultural significance. Whether shooting hoops or honoring the legacy of African American schools, it’s a neighborhood gem worth visiting.
Duncan Park is located at 1311 Arlington Street at the corner of Arlington Street & West Vaughn Avenue.
