Everett Archives: A History of Everett Parks
Header image: Silver Lake // Courtesy of NW History Room
The city of Everett boasts a robust park system. There are 121 park properties owned and maintained by the city -- so no matter where you live, you’re likely close to some form of outdoor recreation and access to fresh air (though, some of the parks properties have other civic functions, i.e. the Carl Gipson Senior Center).
Beautiful parks and city properties are part of what makes Everett such a liveable city. Here are some of the top parks in Everett and the story of how they came to be.
Forest Park - Mid-Everett
This beloved park was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s as part of President Roosevelt’s New Deal. The park features hiking paths, a splash pad, a pool, and a display hall. Originally, Forest Park also had a zoo that included an elephant named Rosie and a field full of buffalo.
Floral Hall is one of the most attractive buildings in Everett. It was built out of local river stones and dark original-growth timber harvested from Verlot. The hall is used for weddings, events, and civic group functions.
Forest Park’s Rosie // Courtesy NW History Room
Grand Avenue Park - North Everett
Take a stroll on at this well-appointed park and you’re sure to notice the stately home of Senator Henry M Jackson. It’s the white mansion that offers a commanding view of Port Gardner.
The park used to overlook mills and floating log booms. Today, looking west, you’re sure to be impressed by views of the marina and Hat, Whidbey, and Camano Islands. The park is a favorite local spot to watch fireworks over the bay during civic 4th of July celebrations.
Take the footbridge that leads to the marina and enjoy a day of dining, drinks, and a stroll by the waterfront.
Forest Park under construction // Courtesy NW History Room
Thornton A. Sullivan Park (Silver Lake) - South Everett
Before it was annexed into Everett, Silver Lake was a destination for summertime recreators. The appeal of the lake was that it was close to the Interurban trolley line, so folks could hop on in Everett or Seattle and spend a day on the shores of Silver Lake. Early photos of the park show people going down slides into the lake, canoeing the waters with a picnic basket, or taking a Sunday rest on a blanket spread near a Model T.
Today the park has a big playground, shady picnic spots, and plenty of sandy beaches for swimmers.
What’s your favorite park in Everett? Let us know on our Facebook page.
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