A new tree for Cal Anderson (Image: Department of Enterprise Services)
The state’s Department of Enterprise Services has replaced the memorial and tree for Senator Cal Anderson at its location along Cherry Lane in Olympia.
Earlier this month, a department crew unceremoniously chopped down the dying Kwanzan Cherry tree and removed the memorial dedicated to Anderson, the state’s first openly gay state legislator and namesake for the Capitol Hill park.
After outcry from public officials and LGBTQ organizations, Gov. Jay Inslee ordered the tree and memorial replaced. A new tree has now been planted.
An updated memorial is also part of the plans
Meanwhile, it is the maple trees around Cal Anderson Park that have been causing issues. CHS reported here on the city’s search for answers with hopes of keeping the dozens of Red Sunset Maples surrounding the park while also stopping their roots from destroying the sidewalks.
Back in Olympia, there will need to be a new plan for the Cal Anderson memorial tree soon. The state says all the trees along Cherry Lane are coming down. “In anticipation that all trees along Cherry Lane will come down in about four years when the road is replaced, DES will be working with stakeholders before the road replacement to determine a location for a replacement Cal Anderson memorial tree as well as an updated memorial plaque,” the department said.
This morning, our staff members replaced the Sen. Cal Anderson memorial tree. Anderson was a respected veteran, legislator and civil rights champion. The previous tree was dying and was removed for safety. Learn about the memorial honoring his legacy: https://t.co/2VBHQiuDNh pic.twitter.com/9lrkP9pBnq
— Washington State Department of Enterprise Services (@WaStateDES) August 25, 2023
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Glad to hear this. I’ve often thought Cal Anderson Park needs a statue of the man himself. He was a wonderful human being and the thousands of people who enjoy his namesake park should know who he is!
Definitely. I presume there’s a memorial plaque somewhere in the park, but I’ve never come across it. He deserves something much more visible.