Visitors who take advantage of the Van Valey open house in Everett might be struck by the contrast – rich woodwork, a coffered ceiling, picture-rail molding and a bronze sculpture light fixture sharing space with brightly colored modern glass art.
But the contrast is hardly a contradiction. It might just be the way A.L. Van Valey would want it.
Thanks to the unbelievably generous gift by Ed and Betty Morrow in 2002, the City of Everett is the proud owner of the historic box-style home on Colby Avenue. And it’s open to the public today from noon to 8 p.m. and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Built in 1914, the Van Valey House has had many lives. In addition to originally serving as a home for the family it is named after, it also played host from 1957 to 1962 to the popular Andiron restaurant and later the offices of the Snohomish-Island County Chapter of the American Red Cross. It was the Morrow family home for 23 years.
The Morrows’ donation allows everyone to see for themselves a little bit of our history and take a peek at some of our local artists’ work. A trip to A.L. Van Valey’s office shares a bit about the original owner and his family, including his two daughters’ noted passion for theater. A colorful costume cap belonging to one of the girls is on display along with photographs and mementos belonging to the family and their business.
Given the family’s contribution to Everett and its interest in culture and the arts, today’s use of the historic home likely would have made Mr. Van Valey proud. The extensive work by the city’s Park and Recreation Department serves as an example of how the old and the new can not only co-exist peaceably, but mingle beautifully.
When Mr. Van Valey built his grand, comfortable home all those years ago, there was nothing old or historical about it. It was made from the best there was to offer in 1914 and its exquisite details probably dazzled envious neighbors. Its restored splendor reminds us to stop for a moment and take in an important history lesson. It also reminds us to look around us and see who is making history in this community today.
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