Preserving a Living Memorial to Our Veterans

This special program celebrates the enduring legacy of Olympia’s Legion Way trees, planted in 1928 in honor of local soldiers who lost their lives in World War I and the Spanish-American War.

Historian Jennifer Crooks will present an illustrated history of the trees and explain their significance to Olympia’s civic heritage. The event will also include the planting of new trees to fill in gaps in the memorial, a performance by the American Legion Band, and the dedication of a new interpretive sign for the historic armory building. Guests are invited to stay afterward for refreshments and conversation.

“The beautiful Legion Way street tree canopy didn’t just happen,” said Greg Griffith, president of the Olympia Historical Society and Bigelow House Museum. “Nearly 100 years ago, patriotic citizens, organizations, and veterans joined to design and plant these trees as a living memorial to those who served our country in World War I and the Spanish American War. On November 8th, OHS & BHM and our partners will join to honor our veterans who have made history through their service. We also advocate for the preservation of the historic Legion Way streetscape so that future generations will enjoy its beauty and remember those who have served in combat.”

Griffith added, “We are proud to announce that the American Legion Band will be providing music for the event as they did ninety-seven years ago when the street trees living memorial was dedicated on Veterans Day 1928. We thank the members of the band for playing for the event as well as for their service to our nation.”

For more information, please contact Erin Whitesel-Jones at director@olympiahistory.org