Community Legacy: Smith Childrens Park

On the east side of Dyes Inlet lies a hidden gem. Maybe you drive past this park without even noticing the sign, but tucked among the trees is teaching garden on donated land. We love discovering new places in Kitsap, and learning about their history. This is one we couldn’t wait to share.

Named for the generous donors who left the land to the Kitsap County Parks Department,  J. A. & Anna F. Smith Childrens Park sits alongside Tracyton Blvd.  This park is so much more than a picturesque place for a picnic, with a trail to access the beach. Almost as old as the program itself, Smith Children’s Garden is home to the county’s first Master Gardeners Demonstration Garden. 

Gardens that Give

The Master Gardeners Foundation of Kitsap County was founded in 1987 to support the local extension program for the WSU Master Gardeners Program. According to their website, the WSU Master Gardeners contribute over 19,000 hours of volunteer time each year reaching over 75,000 Kitsap County residents. There are many programs offered by the Master Gardeners. Some signature programs include “ask a gardener,” summer children’s programs, and the hands-on demonstration gardens. Additionally, the produce grown at the Demonstration Gardens is donated to local food banks. Statewide, these extension programs donate an average of 60,000 lbs of fresh produce per year. These gardens are a great example of community coming together. 

The Smiths and Their Legacy

Jay and Anna Smith purchased the seven and a half acre parcel in 1930, where they made their home. Jay worked at the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard during WWII and the Korean War. His wife Anna made her career as a teacher at Tracyton Elementary School. Despite ever having children of their own, the Smiths shared a love for learning. Following their passing, the park was dedicated in 1989. Pamphlets available at the park feature a detailed history of the Smith’s, with special thanks to the Kitsap History Museum for archival information. For more than three decades, Master Gardeners have maintained this park alongside other organizations and the county.  Smith Childrens Park is just one of dozens of Kitsap Parks.

(From a blog)Third-grade teacher Anna Smith and her Tracyton Elementary School Class of ’57 (or ’58) – Courtesy of Lee Derror (that’s her in the front row next to Ms. Smith)

More about Kitsap County Parks

Here in Kitsap, we are fortunate to be surrounded by natural beauty and lucky to have more than 11,000 acres of county parks. From heritage forests to playgrounds, public beaches to ballfields, we’ve got it all. The mission of Kitsap County Parks is: “We enrich Kitsap County’s quality of life by stewarding parks, outdoor spaces, and facilities that are inclusive, safe, and accessible for all. Through community events, educational programs, and environmental protection, we foster connections, promote well-being, and create enduring opportunities for current and future generations to enjoy and thrive.” Certainly, we agree that our numerous parks enhance the local quality of life. More Kitsap Parks hidden gems in the video below.

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