Discover Local History when you Visit the Nearby Coal Miners' Honor Garden

Ten Trails residents can discover more about their city’s rich history at the local Black Diamond Historical Depot Museum, which is located just minutes from the community at 32627 Railroad Ave, Black Diamond, WA 98010. The museum is open Thursdays from 9 am to 4 pm, and weekends from noon to 3 pm. The museum’s weekend hours after Memorial Day to Labor Day are from noon to 4 pm.  While there, be sure to check out the outdoor Coal Miners' Honor Garden, which commemorates former Washington state coal miners.

Memorial Wall and Statue

Inspired by a coal miner memorial statue in Roslyn, WA, the Black Diamond Coal Miners' Honor Garden and beautiful bronze miner statue were dedicated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony in summer 2013. One of the most visually-striking aspects of the memorial is the large, 28-foot granite wall that lists more than 1100 names of miners who perished in the coal mines of Washington State, including a list of unknown miners. In front of the wall sits a life-size bronze miner’s statue that was created by artist Paul Crites of Ellensburg, WA. The statue includes gorgeous fine details like a patina meant to depict the coal dust that typically covered miners during their work.

Honor Garden

The memorial also has a garden of flowers and plants around it that were planted by late local resident, Katherine Daniels, and is now maintained by Jane Falding. Nearby are four granite benches for visitors to use to sit and admire the memorial, or to simply enjoy watching the passers-by in downtown Black Diamond’s charming historic setting. Visitors may notice that around the base of the wall and statue are inscribed brick pavers. These donated pavers help maintain the upkeep of the Honor Garden and can be purchased through the museum. For more information about the Coal Miners" Honor Garden, contact the Black Diamond Museum Depot at 360-886-2142