‘Star’ of Anacortes park system

Unique mosaic

Stone mason Bryan Elliott

They are not precious stones in the traditional sense, but the thousands of colored rocks making up Causland Memorial Park walls and gazebo have distinguished the city block as a community gem since its construction 100 years ago.

The downtown park’s roots trace to the turn of the century as a vacant lot primarily used by neighborhood children. It came under the ownership of a railroad company, which acquired the 2-acre parcel in alignment with the island community’s dream of becoming a vital Northwest railroad terminus.

When those dreams were shattered, the railroad sold the block to the City of Anacortes for $500. Now a public asset, the property initially named Great Northern Park remained undeveloped.

Then came World War I and the European battlefields that drew U.S. servicemen from countless communities including Anacortes. Among locals who gave their lives during that war was 31-year-old Harry Leon Causland.

For acts of bravery that led to his death during a battle in France, Causland was posthumously chosen by U.S. General John Pershing as one of the “One Hundred Immortals” honored for service in WWI. The one-time Guemes Island farm boy was also awarded the Distinguished Service Cross, the second highest military decoration that can be given to a U.S. soldier.

After the war a determination was made to re-brand the park in honor of Causland and 13 other men from area islands including Guemes. Railroad man Sam Hill was a friend of French-Canadian architect John Baptiste LePage, who he introduced to Anacortes leaders who had begun raising money to build a memorial park.

Money to construct the memorial was provided by the city, the Anacortes District Memorial Association and numerous private donations. The fund drive exceeded expectations and final contributions reached $20,000, the cost of the completed project.

Construction of the memorial began in 1919, mostly completed by 1921 but continuing through 1926. Greek, Roman and Polish architectural influences are all evident in this elaborate stone mosaic, designed and built under the direction of LePage.

Low, serpentine walls surround the park. A gazebo and terrace seating are similarly made of colored pebbles and rock mosaic. Building materials feature thousands of pieces of native rock gathered from Anacortes and nearby islands.

Colors of red, gray, tan and white have been worked into many customized designs in the rock walls and gazebo. Each rock has been hand placed and permanently set in cement. Care has also been taken to use shrubbery and trees also of native origin.

Following its completion, Causland Park became a focal point for many city activities and a backdrop for events such as Labor Day, the 4th of July, Veterans Day, Easter and the Marineers’ Pageant, a local celebration that some say inspired Seafair in Seattle.

Today it is still used for many public events, private weddings and family gatherings. Given its origins as a memorial park, it is still an annual meeting place for groups hosting events to honor those who have given their lives in wars ranging from WWI and WWII to Korea and Vietnam.

On a day to day basis, the park is a draw to locals and tourists alike. Thanks to the efforts of the Anacortes Museum and city Parks & Recreation Department, a large interpretive sign features history and photographs.

As has been the case since the beginning, the incredible mosaic walls draw the attention of all, with many “capturing” digital photo memories.

Notes:
• Causland Memorial Park is distinguished as a National Historic Place.
• A large wooden park sign, installed at the southeast corner of the park in 1996, was donated by VFW Post 4481 and Causland American Legion Post 13.
• The park’s modern features include automated sprinklers, amber mariner lights, new amphitheater seats and upgraded sidewalks and stairways.
• For information about park reservations, contact the City of Anacortes Parks & Recreation Department.