When the City began to build public playgrounds in the early 20th century, Parks Commissioner Ray Lambert located one of these facilities at Zarzamora Street and Apache Creek on San Antonio’s west side. Land included in the park was first acquired by the City in 1898 and other property was added in 1936.
The playground was still under construction when several local Hispanic organizations petitioned the City Council in May 1918 to name it in honor of Frank Cassiano. A descendant of pioneer San Antonio businessman Jose Cassiano who also helped finance the Texas revolution, Frank Cassiano was a leader in the civic and political life of San Antonio for 30 years. The park was a popular location for Diez y Seis celebrations and in 1923, Council approved construction of a swimming pool in the park. Picnic facilities and a basketball court were added in later years.