Fittingly located along the Columbia River, tucked under a tall bridge, this monument celebrates people who loved or made their livelihood on the water.
Stroll along the pretty River Walk toward the southern end of the Astoria-Megler Bridge to visit the Maritime Memorial. Step close to the curved black granite walls to read engravings describing nautical ties of those commemorated. While some honorees served in maritime service roles or made their living on the sea, others simply appreciated the water or loved nature.
The memorial wall was dedicated in 1993, sponsored by Mrs. Bob Chisolm, Sr., who lost her son at sea. She wanted to help other grieving families to honor their loved ones as well. A 2019 expansion installed additional blank wall space and added sidewalks and benches.
Each 4-inch by 12-inch (10-centimeter by 30-centimeter) space has etchings with the name, years of birth and death and a customized graphic or short inscription related to the individual being honored. Notice a few with an anchor indicating the person died at sea.
Read the unique engravings on these spaces. Some simply indicate gillnetter, fisherman, tugboat operator, merchant marine, oologist, clamdigger or other occupations and hobbies. Others offer more sentimental descriptions such as “she loved the sea” or “devoted to wildlife.” Still more have one-of-a-kind identifiers including “capt that thar boat Y’Reka” and “builder/capt of Lurdine.”
Note the accompanying graphics of boats, fish, wildlife, buildings and more. Several are unique artwork while others use one of the 100 graphics options offered by Astoria Parks ranging from a diving helmet to a cannery worker.
If you wish to have a deceased loved one honored on the wall, pay the engraving fee and provide information before April 1. Attend the annual Memorial Day service when new blocks are revealed. Names are read and attendees place flowers on the water.
Find the Maritime Memorial in Maritime Memorial Park, which is managed by the Astoria Parks Department. This River Walk area along the Columbia River is free to enter and open at all times. There is a park just west of the walls. While you’re here, walk a few minutes east to see the Astoria Victory Monument, a more traditional bronze military statue honoring World War I soldiers.
