Historic Trust reports Sacred Heart Garden punch‑walk, site repairs and upcoming programs

Holly Chamberlain, representing the Historic Trust, briefed the commission on Nov. 5 about several preservation projects and upcoming public programs.

Chamberlain said a punch walk was held that morning for the Sacred Heart Garden at Edlund Square and that construction is largely complete. A fence removal is scheduled for Friday and a soft opening is planned for Dec. 1 (First Friday, 4–8 p.m.) with Santa; a formal opening is planned for spring. A few items (notably light poles for the plaza) are delayed by shipping and are expected to be installed by the end of the month.

Chamberlain reported the portico rehabilitation is virtually complete except for paint touch-ups. The trust submitted an application to the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) Historic Preservation Fund to support academy infirmary rehabilitation work needed before exhibit design. On the historic-reserve side, seasonal maintenance (gutter cleaning, tree trimming) was completed; October windstorms caused only minor branch loss. A window was broken at the artillery barracks by an intruder (caught on camera); Vancouver police are pursuing the case.

Visitor data from the Marshall Houses show an unusually international visitor mix in September, with more than half of guests traveling from more than 50 miles away. Chamberlain also announced upcoming programs, including a University of Washington research scientist lecture on Nov. 13 and the 2025 Legacy Veterans Day Parade on Nov. 11 (route and time provided). Nomination and award opportunities were noted: nominations for the 2026 George C. Marshall leadership awards are open until Dec. 3.

Chamberlain encouraged preregistration for events via the trust’s website and said routine seasonal maintenance and public programming will continue.