Looking Back

Lady Washington: 2003

The tall ship replica Lady Washington has been a visitor to Anacortes many times over the years. This shot is from August 2003.

Downtown arch May 2005

Superstructure of Downtown Anacortes Arch, Spring 2005.

Samish Elder Laura Edwards: 1983

This portrait was taken on September 24, 1983 at the dedication ceremony of the “Maiden of Deception Pass” story pole at Rosario Beach. I was commissioned by tribal leader Ken Hansen of Anacortes to photograph the event, attended by several dozen Samish tribal members including elder Laura Edwards. According to Leslie Eastwood, “Laura was the […]

Shell announces Anacortes decision: July 1953

It was 69 years ago next month that Shell Oil Company announced it would build a $75 million refinery in Anacortes. The decision represented a critical shot in the arm to the local economy, winning enthusiastic response from community leaders and citizens. A second refinery built by Texaco, followed with March’s Point operations beginning in […]

Majestic expansion past: 2013

Heavy equipment operators do their thing on the property lying between the Majestic Inn & Spa courtyard and the site of the inn’s new, 30-room addition. It’s fun to have such a high visibility construction project in town, and the added rooms will be a community asset. (Note: Yet another expansion to this downtown hotel […]

Popular Anacortes beach: 2008

Sunset Beach, Washington Park, 2008.

Waterfront Festival snapshots: 2004

One of this community’s most exciting events is the annual Waterfront Festival at Cap Sante Marina. This family friendly festival is hosted by the Anacortes Chamber of Commerce in partnership with local sponsors including the Port of Anacortes. Photos from the 2004 archives!

Paintbrush in bloom

This photo from 2018 was taken about this time of year, when wildflower Paintbrush is flashing its distinctive red blossoms. I’ve seen a few “families” on the way to Whidbey in recent days.

Anacortes Lutheran Church confirmation: 1928

In 1984 I had the privilege of editing a 75th Anniversary history of Anacortes Lutheran Church. I found this photo in my “archives,” and I have come to believe it is the confirmation class of 1928. If so, pictured here are Pastor Hjermstad, Harold Berentson, Laurene Johnson (Rhodes), Eldora Prawitz (Peterson), Willard Rockom, Harold Trulson, […]

Air Jaden: Deception Pass

Vulture roosts near lake

This creature captures your attention and leaves a permanent impression. Turkey vulture in snag near Heart Lake, 2018. There were companions, which made the event even more intimidating. Beak and claws are built for serious scavenging.

Canoe Pass guardian: 2013

I was shocked once to hear my wife ask: “How many eagle photos can one guy take?” Answer: 10,000+ On a serious note, I do have my favorites, one of which is this shot from Canoe Pass Bridge near the Fidalgo Island side of Deception Pass. I rarely see eagle perched on this bluff, and […]