The Birds and Benches project aims to create a series of yellow cedar benches and bird sculptures placed throughout Sitka as cultural and historical trail markers. Each bench and bird installation will feature some common design elements and a QR code that links them to each other, and provide information about Sitka’s people, plants, animals, and their collective significance to this place we call ‘home’. Each bench and bird would also honor a leader of social justice, progress, and healing in Sitka and beyond.
The Benches and Birds working group has successfully raised money to create the first of these benches, and contributions to the project are being managed by Sitka Counseling and Prevention Services Alaska.
The benches and birds will highlight Sitka’s scenic beauty, and historical or culturally significant spaces. They will create interest and add to the photographic opportunities for residents and visitors, and will increase positive social media representation of Sitka.
The first bench was installed in front of Harrigan Centennial Hall in 2022, and is dedicated to Elizabeth Wanamaker Peratrovich. Work on a second bench is expected to begin in mid-2023.
To get involved or make a financial contribution to this project please contact Loyd Platson or Paulette Moreno via lplatson@scpsak.org