Fisk Family Park: A Historic Treasure Preserved for Kirkland

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The Kirkland Community Foundation is proud to have partnered with the City of Kirkland and our generous community to successfully preserve the iconic Fisk property, now officially Fisk Family Park.

Located on 6th Street beside the Cross Kirkland Corridor, this peaceful refuge—with Everest Creek winding through and the beloved Red Shed standing proudly—has long been a symbol of old Kirkland. Today, thanks to our community, it is protected forever as public parkland.

A Beloved Piece of Kirkland’s History

At the heart of the property stands a charming 1945 red cottage, built by the Fisk family. Its peaked roof, mullioned windows, and white trim have made it a local landmark for nearly 80 years. The Fisk family’s roots in Kirkland date back to 1914, when Walter and Grace Fisk settled on Rose Hill. Generations of the family grew up on this land, and their legacy remains woven into the history of our city.

This unique parcel—nestled between green space, historic rail trails, and a flowing creek—captures the character and story of early Kirkland.

How the Park Was Saved

When the property came on the market after the passing of James “Jim” Fisk, developers quickly showed interest. The Foundation had been in conversation with the family long before the sale, hoping for a path to preservation.

Recognizing the importance of this land, the City and KCF took swift action. The City committed $200,000 toward the $800,000 purchase price and borrowed the remainder to prevent the property from being developed. KCF partnered as the fundraising arm of the effort, rallying the community to help repay the loan and reduce the burden on taxpayers.

In November 2024, KCF proudly presented the first major check to the City Council, marking a significant milestone in securing the park’s future.

A Community Effort

The success of the preservation campaign reflects the dedication and generosity of our donors. Their belief in protecting special places like this one made Fisk Family Park possible.

Lead supporters include:
Richard & Lisa Altig • Margaret Meister & Joan McBride • Amazon •
Nona & Ulrich Ganz • Sally Otten & Tom Neir • Jon Dulude •
Kathy & James Feek • Craig Gaudry • James & Janet Hill •
Aaron Jacobson • Bea Nahon • Tavan Pechet • Sue Shinstrom • Karen Snepp

Each donor helped transform a once-vulnerable historic property into a permanent community asset.

Celebrating the Vision

On November 20, 2025, the City of Kirkland officially dedicated Fisk Family Park. The ribbon-cutting ceremony—attended by City Council members, Parks Department leaders, three former mayors, and members of the Foundation’s Board—celebrated the successful preservation of this cherished landmark. The unveiling of the commemorative plaque honored both the Fisk family and the many supporters who made the park possible.

A Legacy for Future Generations

Fisk Family Park stands today as a testament to civic partnership, community generosity, and love for Kirkland’s heritage. It is a place to pause, reflect, connect with nature, and appreciate the history that shaped our city.

The Kirkland Community Foundation is honored to have played a role—from the first conversations with the Fisk family to the final ribbon cutting—and remains committed to stewarding projects that protect and strengthen the heart of our community.

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Fisk Family Park: A Historic Treasure Preserved for Kirkland

A Beloved Piece of Kirkland’s History

How the Park Was Saved

A Community Effort

Celebrating the Vision

A Legacy for Future Generations

Learn and stay connected to the Kirkland nonprofit community

Thanks for your interest in joining the Kirkland Charitable Collective! Submit your info and we'll get back to you with details soon.

Spark Something Good - with the Kirkland Community Foundation

Community Project Letter of Interest

The story behind your idea —

Inquire about opening a donor-advised fund

Thank you for your interest in serving on our board of directors.

Please reach out to us with any inquiries or comments. We'd love to hear from you.