Homer Harris Park

Location: 2401 E. Howell Street

In 2002, Stimson Bullitt, a friend of parks and civic leader, donated $1.3 million to Seattle Parks Foundation to create a park in honor of beloved medical doctor and legendary athlete, Dr. Homer Harris. The funds were used to acquire property in the Central Area not far from where Dr. Harris grew up, develop the park, and establish a modest maintenance fund for the facility.

In the 1930s, Dr. Homer Harris was a track and football star at Garfield High, and later became the first African American football team captain in the Big 10 Conference at the University of Iowa. After graduating from medical school, Dr. Harris returned to Seattle to establish his practice as Seattle's first African American dermatologist. Homer Harris Park was dedicated and opened for all to enjoy in spring of 2005.

About Artwork at Homer Harris Park: Artist Monad Elohim created the art installations at Homer Harris Park which are based on his personal conversations with Dr. Harris. The oneness of all things and the struggles faced by African Americans - rising from shackles and limitations to achieve freedom - are central themes in Monad's work, which also incorporates imagery with origins in African culture.  In addition, Judith and Daniel Caldwell created the bronze donor trees, scrolls, and historical plaques featured in Homer Harris Park. The African American History Wall was a later addition to the park made in February 2008 and chronicles the life of Dr. Homer Harris. The History Wall was designed by TsuluWerks, Inc.

Watch the Seattle Channel video: A Walk Through the Life of Dr. Homer Harris >
Read the Seattle P-I remembrance of Dr. Homer Harris >