Here is a direct quote from the Newton Graphic on May 7, 1953:

The board [of aldermen] approved purchasing land in Waban for a playground at the cost of $20,000. Concurrent with this, the Board also set up a "Waban Playground Fund" to accept contributions since the total purchase price will be near $25,000.

The area was purchased several years ago by a trust* formed by Waban residents to block the erection of garden apartments on the land. Although the price they paid is reported to be in excess of $25,000, they are willing to sell at that figure if it is made a playground.

* Warren Lincoln formed the Montclair Realty Trust, Inc. with abutters and bought the land from the Boston Gardening Company.