Welcome to the charming Peter Kirk Park, a place steeped in history and community spirit in Kirkland, Washington. Named after the visionary British entrepreneur Peter Kirk, this park is more than just a recreational area; it is a testament to the rich history and development of Kirkland itself.
Peter Kirk arrived in the Pacific Northwest in the 1880s with grand ambitions of creating a ‘Pittsburgh of the West.’ He envisioned Kirkland as a bustling steel town, centered around the Moss Bay Iron and Steel Works. Although the Panic of 1893 halted these dreams, the city’s spirit endured, evolving from steel to other industries.
Peter Kirk Park, located in what is now downtown Kirkland, sits on land that once housed the brick company that supplied materials for many of Kirkland’s early buildings, including the historic Peter Kirk Building. This building, constructed in 1889, was meant to be the centerpiece of Kirk’s steel empire. Although the steel mill never materialized, the building still stands today as a symbol of Kirk’s lasting impact on the city.
Over the years, Kirkland transitioned from its industrial roots to a vibrant community with a strong focus on preservation and outdoor spaces. The park itself has evolved alongside the city, transforming into a beloved local hub for recreation, events, and community gatherings.
Peter Kirk’s legacy is evident not just in the park and building that bear his name, but in the spirit of innovation and resilience that characterizes Kirkland today. From the first wool mill in Washington to a thriving shipbuilding industry, Kirkland has continually adapted and thrived.
As you walk through Peter Kirk Park, you are treading the grounds of a place that has witnessed the ebb and flow of history, from industrial ambitions to community development. Enjoy the lush greenery, take in the historical significance, and feel the echoes of a past that still shapes the present.
