EVERETT, DEC. 19: The removal of a shovel and a rake welded to a community landmark, the Pacific Stone Company Sign, has prompted a community-led restoration effort.
The sign and building, located at 3826 Rucker Ave, date back to the 1950s. The sign was designed and installed for Farmers Garden Center, with the name changed to match former tenant, Pacific Stone Company.
Pacific Stone occupied the building for 25 years before relocating to 2815 Nassau St. in 2024.
Everett Housing Authority (EHA) bought the land in 2022 with the intention of building an affordable housing complex for seniors.
In early December 2025, Seen In Everett first reported that the welded shovel and rake on the sign were missing.
The parts of the sign were removed because of a perceived safety concern, Sarah Smith, executive director of EHA told Everett Post. However, the removal was not an EHA-directed action, Smith said. The missing pieces have not been found.
EHA heard the community “loud and clear,” Smith said, when residents expressed frustration and concern over the missing pieces.
“While the change has brought disappointment to many, it has also inspired a collaborative effort to restore and reimagine these beloved landmarks,” a press release from EHA said.
The committee will include local voices, the original sign owner, EHA, Schack Art Center, and other partners committed to “preserving Everett’s unique character,” the release said.
“This is more than restoring a sign. It’s about bringing people together,” Judy Tuohy, former executive director of Schack Art Center. “We’re excited to collaborate with Everett Housing Authority and the community to bring forward a vision that reflects the heart and artistry of Everett.”
Smith said that EHA has been in communication with Totem Family Diner, 4410 Rucker Ave, to revive the iconic back-and-forth messaging between signs.
“We wanted to bring back the spirit and glory to the community,” Smith said.
The committee will meet before the New Year and is looking for community voices to help dictate the future of the community landmark.
“Our role is to listen and support,” Smith said, “This restoration is an opportunity to celebrate Everett’s history and imagination. We’re committed to doing this with the community and for the community, so the sign continues to spark pride and joy for years to come.”
Email Sarah Smith [email protected] for more information about the committee.
