History of the Deane's Children's Park Dragon

1962 - The Mercer Island Preschool Association (MIPA) helped develop a children’s park as part of Island Crest Park, originally owned and operated by King County Parks. MIPA solicited support from service organizations to help purchase equipment and develop what became known as Dragon Park, as a result of a 50’ long plaster and metal dragon feature. After taking a lead stewardship role in the maintenance and care of the area, MIPA handed over park responsibilities to the City of Mercer Island in August of 1965.

The park was later named Deane’s Children's Park in honor of Lola and Phil Deane, who were active in the development of the park and other youth and civic activities. The City and MIPA have partnered in subsequent improvements over the years, including a significant renovation in 2005.

Deane's Children's Park Dragon Play Structure!

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October 29, 2013

The 50-foot, six ton dragon played on by generations of island children was created in 1965 by artist, Kenton Pies. Numerous coats of paint had brightened the dragon's fading color through the decades, but the paint was peeling away and the dragon had fallen into disrepair. The Parks and Recreation Department contacted the artist, who at 81 years old was living in Montana, to ask about repairing the dragon. The artist said that he could build a bigger and better dragon that would be around for generations of island children to enjoy. The total cost of the dragon was $60,000, which included installation. At the request of the Mercer Island Arts Council, the City Council approved this amount to be paid out of the 1% For The Arts fund.