Past

The story of the sign begins with the Koutlas family, whose business opened in 1937 as Farmers Feed & Seed. As Everett grew and changed, so did the family business. In March 1960, C. P. Koutlas and his sons, Pete and Fotis, celebrated the grand opening of a modernized Farmers Garden Center, offering everything from plants and shrubs to lawn equipment and gardening supplies. The sign became a familiar sight along Rucker Avenue, welcoming generations of customers and passersby.

The Koutlas family was also active in the Everett community. Newspaper archives tell stories of charitable efforts, civic involvement, and a commitment to the city's growth. Their garden center was more than a place to buy plants—it was part of the fabric of the neighborhood.

Over time, the sign became something greater than an advertisement. Its playful design and unmistakable silhouette made it a recognizable piece of Everett's character, connecting generations of residents to a time when locally owned businesses and handcrafted neon signs helped define the city's streets.