Homer Harris Park

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HOURS

4 a.m. - 11:30 p.m.

ABOUT THE PARK

This park in the heart of the Central Area features unique artwork, a "Unity Plaza" gathering place, picnic tables and lawn areas. Barbecue on the grill or bring a picnic lunch, and enjoy the views to Lake Washington and the Cascade Mountains. The park will also include a large elephant sculpture in the children's play area.

HISTORY

In the 1990s, the Central Area neighborhood plan identified the need for a park in the Madison and 23rd Avenue area. The 2000 Pro Parks Levy included funds to acquire and develop a small park in the neighborhood.

In 2002, an anonymous donor gave $1.3 million to this new park through the Seattle Parks Foundation, doubling the size of the park, increasing park development funding, and creating a small maintenance endowment. This donation represents one of the largest donations in the history of Seattle Parks and Recreation. For more information, see Seattle Parks Foundation.

The Pro Parks Levy and Seattle Parks Foundation funding was combined with King County Conservation Futures funds, grants, and additional private donations. In 2002, land was purchased for the new park, and the community held a celebration naming the park in honor of Dr. Homer E. Harris. In 2003-2004 Parks staff worked with the community to plan and design the park. A grand opening ceremony for the park was held in May 2005.

The park is on a tract of land once owned by William Grose, a black pioneer, who bought the tract from Henry Yesler in 1882 for $1,000 in gold.

Dr. Homer Harris (1916-2007), for whom the park is named, was one of Seattle's most beloved and respected athletes and physicians. Artwork at the park notes highlights and achievements in the life of Dr. Harris.

> Learn more about Homer Homer Harris at HistoryLink.org