Washington State University Skagit County Master Gardeners have launched a fundraising effort to help restore the memorial significance of Memorial Highway.
In 1931, Highway 536 west of Mount Vernon was designated as Memorial Highway to honor Skagit County citizens who gave their lives in World War I. Both sides of the roadway were planted with 180 elm tree to memorialize the Skagit County veterans. Today, all but two of the trees have died or been cut down to make way for growth.
A new memorial has been installed along the highway thanks to the work of LeRoy Anderson, retired owner of Kern’s Funeral Home in Mount Vernon, his daughter Connie LeSourd and the WSU Skagit County Master Gardeners. Anderson’s uncle was one of the WWI veterans memorialized.
An engraved stone memorializing those lost in the war has been installed in the rose garden of the Master Gardeners’ Display Garden on the grounds of the WSU Northwestern Washington Research and Extension Center. A dedication ceremony is planned for Memorial Day weekend.
Julie Powell, manager of the demonstration garden, said the Skagit County Master Gardener Foundation advanced funds for purchase and installation of the arbor, but the circular paving in its center needs to be done. The Master Gardeners also would like to install fences in front of the stone for protection and around the rose garden to prevent damage to the monument.
A special fund has been set up within the foundation for those wishing to make a donation for restoration, maintenance and protection of the memorial. All contributors will be recognized in the program at the dedication at 1 p.m. Saturday, May 24.
For more information on the memorial effort or to make a contribution, call Skagit County Extension at (360) 428-4270 or send a contribution to the Skagit County Master Gardener Foundation, P.O. Box 2801, Mount Vernon, WA 98273. Indicate that you want your donation dedicated to the Memorial Highway memorial.
