ACT THREE WILL NEVER END
FROM BIRTH TO RESURRECTION, CLAYTON'S ROYAL EAGLE
At the end of the 19th Century While Clayton was still known as Allen's Siding plans were underway to build a brick plant as well as a terra cotta plant by Washington Brick & Lime Co. They made it happen and Allen's Siding became Clayton, WA.
The four story plant was huge by modern
In 1976 the building was sold to the city of Spokane for $1. The Eagle was moved to Geiger Field by a crew led by Art Ohler.
So on December 30, 2009, the Eagle left the confines of military life after nearly 90 years and started a trip home to Clayton, WA, to become resurrected and retire to the peaceful surroundings of her HOMETOWN.
Clayton's Queen, preparations complete, is prepared for her final destination.
OUR NATIONAL EMBLEM ascends her throne. Photo by our CDPHS President, Bill Sebright.
We intend to replace this photo of Major General Timothy J. Lowenberg and Rowena Valencia Gica with an updated image taken at our Military Dedication August 7, 2010. This picture is a reminder, “Lest we forget.”
Jeff Lilly, as you can tell is a pro photographer, takes prize of the day.
This is a CDPHS group picture that we can be proud of. It was taken July 10, 2010.
The Eagle's view of the Clayton Drive In, Chief Petroleum and the fire station. The Eagle is also looking straight toward the old terra cotta factory.
7-23-10 Heading down the home stretch. The Sprinkler system complete. The Bronze and Brass plaques in their final position. The Flag Pole with Old Glory & A Flag honoring our POWs will be pictured tomorrow. Then Shrubs and plants for the planters. Our worries are over. Henry Long, Randy Long, and Jo
This photo is covered by possible Copyrights until further notice. Private rights are permissible but not for profit organizations. This photo is the compliments of J. L. Brian of the Deer Park Gazette and the CDPHS entitled 'Standing Watch by Night.'
DITTO ABOVE (Black & White)
|
This is an early addition to the Terra Cotta plant which was probably for, draftsman and layout offices.
In the bowels of this plant existed molding rooms capabilities unbounded. With these capabilities the Washington State National Guard in about 1920 contracted the building of the Nation Emblem Eagle to sit atop their recently rebuilt State Armory. That Eagle was molded and constructed in 29 separate pieces and placed upon the Armory in the year 1922.
The newly restored Eagle was placed and dedicated at Geiger field in 1976 where it remained until Dec. 30, 2009, when a directive was issued. Find a new home or be destroyed.
The arrival to Clayton was a dramatic affair but a stopover at the Rehm's Beauty Salon was imperative. Her makeup applied with one more application. With that the Queen will be crowned.
Gary Fochtman of Knight Construction gently escorts the Queen to her Throne. This is the first parade in Clayton this year. A few more yards and then… !!!!
After just over 7 months (July 7, 2010), it is with utmost pride that we present this scene. The Washington National Guard Emblem has ascended her home forever. Front row- L to R- Chris Wright, Phil Neal, Dennis Whisman, Bill Buckle, Jessica Simon, Dave Lehto. Back row- L to R- Chris Frank and Jim Knight
Bob Clouse, while enjoying the festivities was treated to a surprise visit from 3 of his five Great Grand Children from the Tri Cities, WA, Brianna, Shelby & Jonah Garza.
There is progress on a daily basis with Randy at the helm. Wilbert Vault delivered these manufactured blocks today July 9, 2010. Some for seating, and some for the plaque stanchions.
Randy Long is planting his concrete blocks. Each day shows that the job is nearer to completion.
Gavin Sebright is enjoying the new “rock” benches.
July 19, 2010.
AS OF TODAY JULY 24, 2010, THE CLAYTON TERRA COTTA EAGLE PROJECT BY THE CDPHS IS COMPLETE. THIS PHOTO BY OUR PRESIDENT BILL SEBRIGHT DEPICTS THE GRAND FINALE. GOD BLESS OUR NATION! GOD BLESS CLAYTON, WASHINGTON!
Randy and Taffy Long have been working miracles! Sod and decorative bark is the final step.
When Mr. Victor Schneider and his partner Mr. Oliver Olson completed their workmanship, the Eagle was mounted on the upper most reaches of the Armory. It glistened in the sun nearly a half century. It was transported to Geiger Field, restored, and painted. There it remained until December of 2009. Then it came home
|