For years, Brian Stricklett worked the Boy Scouts of America’s concession stand during the annual Old Settlers Picnic and he noticed the sign marking the entrance to the park was in need of repair or replacing.
When it came time to come up with a project for his Eagle Scout Service Project, the Ferndale Heritage Society agreed the sign was due to be replaced. So Stricklett set to work several months ago to develop a plan and locate businesses willing and able to be part of the project.
Stricklett pointed out one interesting aspect of the project was how the park is owned by the city and managed by the Ferndale Heritage Society and Whatcom Old Settlers Association. This meant he needed to communicate with several entities instead of just one during the project.
The sign required both vertical and horizontal raw wood support posts. According to Stricklett, locating these pieces in the sizes needed was one of the bigger challenges of the project. In addition, there was a big surprise when removing what was expected to be a few inches of concrete at the base only to discover several feet.
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Click for more informationLettering on new sign is cut out of COR-TEN® metal with a stainless steel layer behind. Over time the COR-TEN® develops a decorative layer of rust as it weathers but the stainless steel behind the cutout lettering will remain shiny providing a dramatic contrast.
The following businesses donated time, equipment and materials to the project:
- Boss Construction
- Ferndale Ready Mix
- Oeser Company
- Cutters Incorporated
There was a dedication on October 26th, as City of Ferndale Mayor Gary Jenson acknowledge completion of the project and provided the sign-off Stricklett needed for his project report. Stricklett will present his report to the scouting office and then present it to an Eagle Board review. Assuming all goes well, he will then be awarded the lifetime rank of Eagle Scout.
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Click for more informationAccording to Ferndale Heritage Society Vice-president Linda Harkleroad, “Brian did a great job and has a great support team with his parents and scout leader. It’s nice to see young folks getting involved with park projects that the whole community can enjoy for a long time.”
The previous sign had been erected over 50 years ago (circa 1945). It will be put on display in the Barr Barn in Pioneer Park. Stricklett says he expects his sign to stand for closer to 100 years.