PHOTOS: Miniature Exhibit Brings Redmond History to Life

Redmond United Methodist Church will hold an open house on Saturday, Dec. 1, for a miniature collection that portrays historical Redmond and is currently on display at the church in honor of the city's centennial.

The miniatures depict several Redmond landmarks, including the old railway depot, a former library, the Marymoor Park windmill, and the church itself, which actually pre-dates the city and is Redmond's oldest faith community.

The miniature project was started about 10 years ago by Jim Easley, a resident at Emerald Heights Retirement Community. Judith Simpson, a member of Redmond United Methodist Church who serves on the board at Emerald Heights and also volunteers with the Redmond Historical Society, said the display was about to be moved into storage while Emerald Heights conducted construction at its facility.

Instead, Simpson worked to find a place for the display to be shown in honor of the city's centennial. Simpson, who has lived in Redmond for 30 years, said she's always had an interest in local history.

"It's important to me, and it needs to be recognized," she said. "So I just kind of latched onto this as a way to get people involved."

Redmond United Methodist will hold open house events on the next three Saturdays to give members of the public a chance to view the miniature display. The events are set for 1 to 3 p.m. on Dec. 1, 8 and 15.

The church is located at 16540 NE 80th St. For more information, visit 100years.redmond.gov or www.redmondumc.org.

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Dig local history? Enter our centennial photo contest for a chance to win a $50 gift certificate to Pomegranate Bistro.