Boat sculptures now grace Waterfront Park
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December 20, 2017
STONE BOATS SOLIDIFY TRADITION – Another reason for coming out to Waterfront Park are these very cool and historically significant sculptures. They will not float away, no matter how high the tide. – Photo courtesy of Ollie Iversen
La Conner’s Waterfront Park, the town’s newest, is making a statement of cooperation between the Town and the Swinomish Indian Tribal Community with the re-placement of a tug boat, a canoe and a wheel sculpture to the park from the Skagit County Historical Museum.
The sculptures were originally at Gilkey Square, representing two types of boats used in these waters, a tug and a canoe. Each one shows our reliance on the water, showing the area’s commerce and transportation. The writing on the wheel in both languages welcomes all of us to enjoy them. The Gilkey Square placement symbolized the tie between both communities, which were connected by the swing bridge for decades.
Several years ago, Northwest Stone Sculptures Association gave the Town of La Conner these large stone sculptures. These pieces were joined by a sign donated by the Senff family remembering their parents, Eugene and Mamie Senff. The Senffs had operated Gene’s Grocery on the south side of Morris Street, by the swing bridge connecting the two communities across the Swinomish Channel. That space is now part of Gilkey Square.
The sign tells the story of the sculptures and explains how the NWSSA donated the stone carvings. Marenakos Rock Center donated the stone. The Swinomish Indian Tribal Community, the Town of La Conner and the Senff family cooperated, providing the sign to tell the story.
Their placement at La Conner Waterfront Park under the Rainbow Bridge, the newest community connector, makes that statement anew. Sculptor Tracy Powell worked with Public Works staff, carefully placing the stones along the channel. Kids will climb on these art treasure s for many years to come. They provide enjoyment for all ages.
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