Vol. 41 · No. 3826 Tuesday, November 10, 2026 Everett, WASH

Rake & Shovel Sign

Future

Everett Landmark Since 1959
25$ Donate

Page C3 · Local News

A New Chapter for an Everett Original

Everett Housing Authority Purchases Property

Everett is a city that continues to grow and change. New buildings replace old ones, businesses move, and familiar streets take on new identities. But some pieces of our past deserve to remain part of our future. The iconic rake and shovel sign on Rucker Avenue is one of them.

With redevelopment planned for its longtime home, the sign has an opportunity for a new beginning. Community partners are working to explore how this beloved landmark can be repaired, restored, and given a new home in Everett. While the details of its restoration and future location are still being developed, the goal is to preserve the sign's distinctive character and ensure it remains a recognizable part of the city for generations to come.

Restoring a landmark like this requires more than a fresh coat of paint. The effort may involve reconstructing the missing rake and shovel, repairing aging structural components, restoring its illuminated features, and preparing the sign for installation at a new location. Each step represents an investment in preserving a unique piece of Everett's visual history.

And that's where the community comes in. Through the support of local organizations, businesses, and individuals, we have an opportunity to save something that can't simply be replaced. The sign may have started as an advertisement for a garden center, but today it belongs to Everett's collective memory.

Donate Through

Schack Art Center

Donate Through

Everett Arboretum

Classified Notices

WANTED: A SECOND CHANCE — One historic Everett landmark seeks a brighter future. Some rust, faded paint, and missing neon. Plenty of character.

ART PATRONS: TAKE NOTICE — The Schack Art Center celebrates the creative spirit of Everett. Let's honor that spirit by preserving a colorful piece of the city's commercial art history.

GARDEN LOVERS: TAKE ROOT — The Everett Arboretum and Gardens could provide a fitting new home for a sign that once welcomed generations of gardeners. A little history among the flowers.

CONTRIBUTIONS WELCOME — Help restore a piece of Everett history. Every donation brings us one step closer to bringing the Rake & Shovel sign back to life.

LOCAL LANDMARK – From 'Farmers Feed & Seed' to 'Farmers Garden Center' to 'Pacific Stone Company' each era holds cherished local memories.

COMING SOON: A BRIGHTER FUTURE — One vintage sign. Two oversized garden tools. A little fresh paint and a whole lot of neon. Everett history is ready for its next chapter.