A peek at the past

A short trip to the corner of Calistoga and Washington Avenue ( Hwy 162) in Orting, gives you a wonderful glimpse into days gone by, hometown 4th of July celebrations. The mural painted by Linda Petchnik on the side of the Nunnally Realty building depicts July 4, 1902.

The description with the scene says:  "The parade began at 10 a.m. with eight old soldiers proudly carrying the stars and stripes and marching to the band. Afternoon activities included pole vaulting, greased pole climbing, and tug of war. There was foot, bicycle, sack, and horse racing. The evening was pandemonium with the noise of rockets and firecrackers. The band gave a dance at the opera house." *

To help you get your bearings when you're looking at the mid-left of the mural, Thompson's Store is the site of Union Bank today. On the far right, the feed store is the site of Orting Law, office of Jacqueline McMahon, and to the left of that is the home that is owned today by David and Mary Inge and houses Orting Manor events venue business.

The gazebo in the center is near where a more modern version of the gazebo stands in the park today, and continues to be a gathering place for community events.

The reference to the dance at the opera house, is the building now known as Eagle's Hall at the corner of Bridge St., Corrin St.,  and Harman Way.

Take a peek at the past with a bike ride or walk around town to view the historic murals of Orting. Shoot me an email and let's visit a bit while you're here. Old friends or new, you'll love 'Orting, the small town with the big view!'

*Reference: The History of the Town of Orting. Research by Alice Rushton and Myron Thompson.