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It was billed as a rededication, but Councilor John Haeussler says he thinks it may have been the first formal ceremony for Memorial Park in Hancock. With several veterans in attendance, Haeussler used his research skills to put together more information about the space located across from City Hall. Originally part of Montezuma Park, a memorial to fallen soldiers was first put up in the mid-60’s following the relocation of the American Legion post from near the old primary school, on what is now the campus of Finlandia University, to its current location.
Even after a parking lot was paved separating Montezuma from Memorial Park, it still retained that name to many. Over the past several months, many groups have pitched in. Mayor Paul Labine commemorated their efforts Monday evening.
Deb Mann from the Parks and Recreation Department was given the Outstanding Service Award from the Hancock Rotary Club at the ceremony.
She was the coordinating force between all of the groups’ individual contributions to reimagine Memorial Park. Shrubs and other existing greenery were pulled out by the Army Junior ROTC to open up the park and make it more accessible. It allows the memorial itself to become the centerpiece, changing the tone of the park. That was acknowledged by a moment of silence for the fallen during the rededication ceremony.
Hancock schools contributed two new benches.
The Copper Country Intermediate School District donated new statues for each service branch, made by students at the Career and Technical Education center. Lighting was added to the park, a new flag pole installed, and a drinking fountain was put into place near Quincy Street, among many other improvements. LaBine went through the groups and individuals responsible for each enhancement in his speech, which you can see in full on the Keweenaw Report Facebook page.
Afterwards, those in attendance were treated to a barbecue featuring cookies, hot dogs, and chips. City Manager Mary Babcock worked the grill. Several other councilors were in attendance.
