Mount Constitution Interpretive Center, Orcas Island, WA Content/Concept Development for Exhibit Design

Home , AldrichPears Associates, Moran State Park, Mount Constitution, Orcas Island

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• FEBRUARY 17, 2017

Table of Contents

1.0 Introduction ...... 1 1.1 This Document ...... 1 1.2 Project Description ...... 1 1.3 Scope Of Work ...... 1 1.4 Work To Date ...... 2 1.5 Interpretive Goals ...... 2 1.6 Audience & Visitation ...... 3 2.0 Interpretive Framework ...... 5 2.1 Visitor Experience overview ...... 5 2.2 Thematic Approach ...... 6 2.3 Conceptual Organization ...... 7 2.6 Visitor Experience Walkthrough ...... 8 3.0 Design Approach ...... 23 3.1 Design Approach ...... 23 3.2 Graphic Approach ...... 27 3.3 Text Approach ...... 30 3.4 Approach to Image Acquisition ...... 31 4.0 Budget Allocations ...... 32 5.0 Next Steps ...... 33 6.0 Appendix ...... 34 D Mount Constitution Interpretive Center, Orcas Island, WA | Content/Concept Development 1.0 Introduction

1.1 THIS DOCUMENT 1.2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION 1.3 SCOPE OF WORK This document incorporates feedback from Washington State Together, Mount Constitution and the Observation Tower that As part of Patano Studio Architecture’s team, APA has been Parks staff and stakeholders on the Draft Content/Concept sits at its peak make up one of the foremost attractions at the contracted to complete interpretive design services for the document for exhibits at the new Mount Constitution Interpretive stunningly beautiful, world-renowned Moran State Park in Content/Concept Development Phase of the project. New exhibits Center on Orcas Island in Washington State. It is the final northwest Washington State. The summit provides an unparalleled will support existing experiences at the site and integrate with submittal for the Content/Concept Development Phase led panoramic view of the other San Juan Islands, the Cascade the new interpretive center designed by the architecture firm. by AldrichPears Associates (APA) as part of Patano Studio Mountains and surrounding cities. It also connects visitors to Content/Concept Development Phase Architecture’s design team. Any feedback on this document will be networks of trails and recreational opportunities spread across incorporated into design work in the subsequent design phase. the mountain and the rest of the park. The concept phase includes a draft and a final submittal. This final submittal incorporates feedback received from Washington State Please note that this document represents the interpretive and Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission is Parks on January 20, 2017. It includes: programming design of the new building only. In other words, undertaking a significant interpretive exhibit development project it is not an architectural document although it will help to inform at the site that will include two phases of work: Content/Concept • Updated messaging, text outlines and storylines the design of the new Mount Constitution Interpretive Center. Development and Design Development. The current document • Text approach The floor plans used in this document are for context only and focuses on the conceptual development of exhibits for a new • Updated content matrix do not represent the final layout of the building which has yet building which will replace the Summit Learning Center. While • Updated design approach to be designed. the current exhibits are well loved by visitors and locals alike, an • Materials and finishes approach updated, more cohesive interpretive approach is needed. • Final conceptual floor plan New exhibits will help visitors appreciate the significance • Preliminary artifact list of Mount Constitution in the context of their journey to the • Graphic design approach, with samples park, the summit, and, for those who are able to climb it, the • Preliminary image list Observation Tower. They will understand the geological origins of the mountain, its unique ecology, and why human and natural • Refined sketches communities have been drawn to it for thousands of years. • Revised budget and schedule Please note that Design Development is the proposed next phase of work but is yet to be contracted.

1 1.4 WORK TO DATE 1.5 INTERPRETIVE GOALS On June 20, 2016 APA travelled to Orcas Island to conduct a site Workshop Participants Goals for interpretation at the new MCIC emerged from discussions visit and hold a start-up meeting with Patano Studio Architecture Community Members during the start-up meeting and Content Development Workshop. and Washington State Parks staff. The day also included a tour of They speak directly to Washington State Parks’ broader mission to the Orcas Island Historical Museum from volunteer archivist Edrie • Sandi Talt (Friends of Moran State Park) “connect all Washingtonians to their diverse natural and cultural Vinson. On June 21, APA held a Content Development Workshop • Fred Klein (Stakeholder) heritage and provide memorable recreational and educational with stakeholders and community members interested in the • Rolf Eriksen (Happy Acres Construction, experiences that enhance their lives.” development of the new Mount Constitution Interpretive Center Summit Remodel Contractor) The goals for the site include: (MCIC) and Moran State Park in general. • David Castor (Former WSPRC Park Ranger/Hatchery volunteer) 1. Building meaningful connections that help visitors • Jacqueline Daigle (Friends of Moran State Park) During the workshop APA presented on the guiding principles understand the broader story of Mount Constitution, of the interpretive design process and conducted a brainstorming • Edrie Vinson (Orcas Island Historical Museum) from geological formation, to ecological communities, exercise to build consensus and draw out ideas for potential visitor • Harold Lentzner (Orcas Island Historical Museum) to historical and contemporary human use. experiences at the new MCIC. • Elsie Pamuk (Friends of Moran State Park) 2. Providing indoor interpretive elements that inspire visitors to This document builds on what we saw at the site and heard in • Kat Barnard (Orcas Wild, OISD) explore the natural world outside of the interpretive center. these meetings, fleshing out these ideas into a conceptual approach • Carla Stanley (Artist/Community member) 3. Serving as a key orientation facility for Moran for the interpretive elements at the new MCIC. • Margie Doyle (Orcas Issues) State Park and the San Juan Islands. • Fiona Stone (Concessionaire) 4. Creating experiences for diverse audiences, age groups and learning styles including those specifically designed to engage children and youth. Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission 5. Offering experiences that complement and enhance • Barbara Alten (WSPRC, Construction Project Coordinator) interpretation at other sites in the park. • Ryan Karlson (WSPRC, Interpretive Program Manager) 6. Encouraging respect for the historical and natural elements at the site. • Sam Wotipka (WSPRC, Exhibit Development Coordinator) 7. Providing like experiences for visitors who may not be able • Ted Schlund (WSPRC, San Juan Region Manager) to access the Observation Tower or other viewpoints. • Patricia Anderson (WSPRC, Ranger 3) 8. Creating opportunities for sustainable revenue generation. • Kate Weatherford (Office Assistant for Moran State Park)

Project Consultants • Christopher Patano (Studio Director, Patano Studio Architecture) • Sophie Gao (Patano Studio Architecture) • Gail Hazell (Partner, Senior Designer, AldrichPears Associates) • Anna Wilkinson (Content Developer, AldrichPears Associates) • Cathryn Bingham (Graphic Designer, AldrichPears Associates)

2 Mount Constitution Interpretive Center, Orcas Island, WA | Content/Concept Development 1.6 AUDIENCE & VISITATION

1.6.1 Current Audiences 1.6.2 Target Audiences 1.6.3 Current Use There are a number of key audience groups at the summit As expressed during the Content Development Workshop, family- Whether travelling by vehicle, foot or bicycle, visitors’ first of Mount Constitution. These include: oriented experiences will be a top priority for the new interpretive experience of the site is in the parking lot adjacent to the current • Families, both local and from out of town center. However, instead of aiming to increase the total number of Summit Learning Center. It should be noted that due to its layout, family unit visitors, the goal should be to provide a more focused the parking lot is unable to accomodate buses of any kind. Limited • International visitors interpretive experience for those making their way to the summit. parking spaces restrict the number of visitors who can use the site • Visitors arriving by vehicle at any given time. • Hikers and bikers Also of special consideration are targeted experiences for children and youth as part of this family unit audience. Providing Although inadequate for current needs, the washrooms tucked • Shoulder-season users programming for children allows parents to spend more time away at the back of the building are often the next stop. From here, Currently, much of the visitation to Mount Constitution takes the exploring interpretation at the site. In addition, youth who feel many visitors make their way to the lookout, climbing to the top of form of families from other parts of the United States and Canada, stimulated and have a sense of ownership of the site will be less the Observation Tower if they are able. With a winding set of stairs and increasing numbers from overseas. Local and returning likely to vandalize the Observation Tower (a current challenge as the only means of reaching the top, those in wheelchairs or families, a group with a deep sense of nostalgia for the site, also facing the site). with other mobility issues cannot ascend the Observation Tower. represent a large portion of visitors. Note: In order to further refine potential target audiences more Moreover, the steep climb to the base of the tower means that most people with mobility issues are limited to the parking area. Although hiking and biking trails provide an alternate route to the primary analysis is needed. The completion of a visitor summit, the majority of visitors arrive by vehicle. Some visitors study is critical part of this process. For some considerations related Once visitors have experienced the view, they may come to the arriving this way have mobility issues making it impossible for to this study see Appendix at the end of the document. current Summit Learning Center to find out more about the site. them to make the final ascent to the top of the Observation Tower. A separate gift shop building and concession stand attract many Due to parking restrictions for buses, the size and number of visitors before they head back down the mountain. school groups is limited. Those hiking or climbing to the top tend to be groups of younger adults and families camping in the park. This audience sometimes returns year after year and develops personal relationships with staff. Lastly, groups visiting in the shoulder-season generally do not have children or simply have the freedom to travel in the less busy season. Not dependent on weather or school schedules, this group has been expanding recently.

3 4 Mount Constitution Interpretive Center, Orcas Island, WA | Content/Concept Development 2.0 Interpretive Framework

The interpretive framework builds on the project context and goals. It informs and shapes the interpretive elements and inspires design. This framework provides a foundation for future design phases.

2.1 VISITOR EXPERIENCE OVERVIEW Visitors to Mount Constitution will arrive from other locations on Orcas Island whether they have first taken a ferry, kayak, boat or airplane; are camping in Moran State Park; staying in town; or live on the island. No matter how they got here, they will arrive with a sense of excitement and curiosity about the view they have heard so much about, or the view they hope to see again. Most visitors will arrive at the summit by vehicle, and after finding a place to park will attend to their personal needs, approaching the Mount Constitution Interpretive Center (MCIC) to use the washroom facilities, gather their group, and orient themselves to the site. Exterior signage provides user-friendly maps and key site information; seating provides a welcome opportunity for visitors to collect themselves and prepare for the experiences to come. Whether it is before or after heading to the lookout and Observation Tower, most visitors will visit the MCIC if it is open. Exploring the interpretive exhibits inside, many of their questions about the site will be answered and their experience of the view enriched. As visitors make their way through the MCIC and the Gift Shop within, they feel a sense of connection to the site, eager to explore the rest of Moran State Park and the natural and cultural heritage contained within it. Finally, before heading back down the mountain, visitors may be tempted by a Concessionaire adjacent to the interpretive center, taking a moment to enjoy a snack on one of the outdoor seats.

5 2.2 THEMATIC APPROACH A theme is the underlying message that an exhibition aims to communicate—the “moral of the story.” It pulls all interpretive content together, creating a unified, meaningful experience. Even Overarching Theme though it may never be explicitly stated for the visitor, it is what they will remember long after they have left the site. Mount Constitution’s towering height and unique geography The theme helps us choose from the many compelling stories have made it a gathering place for diverse human and natural available. It shapes the voice we use to communicate these stories. And it ensures that all content provides a unified message. communities, for thousands of years. Subthemes and key messages provide an expanded definition of Subthemes the ideas in the theme. The following themes were informed by conversations with 1. Mount Constitution’s story is part of the broader geologic history of the San Juan Islands dating Washington State Parks, stakeholders, and the design team during back millions of years—the more recent glacial history of the San Juan Islands can be seen on meetings, workshops, and site visits. All interpretation at the site will work with this set of themes. the mountain itself and is visible in the panoramic views from the summit. 2. Mount Constitution’s distinct climates and natural features make it home to a rich diversity of plants and animals. 3. Mount Constitution’s summit provides beautiful views and is also highly functional —people have enjoyed it and used it ever since they have inhabited Orcas Island.

6 Mount Constitution Interpretive Center, Orcas Island, WA | Content/Concept Development 2.3 CONCEPTUAL ORGANIZATION This diagram layers key content areas onto an imagined floor plan of the yet-to-be-designed Mount Constitution 2.0 GEOLOGICAL FORMATIONS :(/&20($1'$5ǳ,9$/5(&(37,21 *,)ǵ6+23 6(&85(6725$*(63$&( Interpretive Center. These content areas generally follow a visitor’s imagined journey through time and space, to the top of Mount Constitution. Starting at the bottom and working their way up, the conceptual journey visitors take through the interpretive EXIT center mirrors and enriches the physical journey they have already taken to arrive at the summit. At the base MAIN ENTRANCE of the mountain visitors travel back millions of years to learn about the geological origins of the San Juan Islands; travelling upwards they explore the diverse ecological communities that currently call the mountain home; and arriving at the summit they discover the relatively recent human activities that have taken advantage of the peak’s height and geography. Note that in each content area there is desire to include Native American stories that would act as a narrative thread through the gallery. The visitor experience walkthrough in the following section provides more detailed descriptions of what visitors will experience as they pass through each area. Note: This diagram includes the general placement of key non-exhibit functions of the building including reception, secure storage and gift shop (currently allocated 208 sq ft.). Please note that these areas are outside the scope of the interpretive design work and will be designed and developed in future phases of architectural work.

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7 2.6 VISITOR EXPERIENCE WALKTHROUGH This section describes what visitors will see, do and experience Exhibit Area: 1.0 Welcome and Arrival as they move through the gallery space. The associated Content Outdoor Orientation Welcome Matrix links gallery themes to more detailed descriptions of specific messages, content, and experiences. Group seating and an orientation map with clear, accessible Welcome to Mount Constitution! As visitors enter the interpretive information greets visitors near the entrance of the Mount center, a friendly face greets them at the reception desk to their Constitution Interpretive Center. After having a chance to sit down left. Any questions they have are answered as they are directed and collect themselves, visitors naturally use the orientation map inside to experience the gallery. to plan their visit. Whether the MCIC is open or closed, they feel In front of them a large, evocative graphic immediately catches confident exploring the features at the summit, nearby trails and their attention. Here they learn that this unique place has drawn the rest of Moran State Park using the information gathered here. people and natural communities to it for thousands of years—as a visitor today, they are part of this ongoing story. There are many way of communicating this message visually. Imagery and messaging may be developed through consultation with local Native American tribes, through exploring historical and contemporary photographs of the site, and/or by referencing more abstract, textural representations of the mountain. No matter which approach is chosen, visitors will understand that they have :(/&20($1'$5ǳ,9$/ come to the right place to learn about the natural and cultural Outdoor Orientation history of Mount Constitution. Welcome As visitors peer down the narrow corridor they catch a glimpse of some of the large-scale processes that brought this mountain into being.

8 Mount Constitution Interpretive Center, Orcas Island, WA | Content/Concept Development :(/&20($1'$5ǳ,9$/ Welcome to the Mount Constitution Interpretive Center Geological formations • large-scale graphic with evocative quote / statement exhibit area • Options: > rock wall > photo mural of Lummi art and/or other local Native American content related to Mount Constitution

9 Exhibit Area: 2.0 Geological Formations Exhibit Area: 3.0 Orientation How did this mountain get here? To answer this question visitors You Are Here Note that there is a desire to include content from Lummi and/ must travel back millions of years to when the bedrock of the San As they turn to move into the main gallery space, visitors can’t other Native American peoples related to the origins of Mount Juan Islands was being formed by slow but powerful geological help but notice the connection between what they’ve just seen and Constitution and Orcas Island. processes. the large topographical map in front of them. While the geological A large graphic treatment on the wall in front of them illustrates processes they have been learning about focused on the San Juan this process of land accumulation as it relates to the entire Islands, this tabletop map is zoomed in on Orcas Island, helping archipelago. Interactive experiences surrounding this visual to orient them to their current location on Mount Constitution. help visitors dig deeper into the geology of the region. A wooden At the perfect height for tactile exploration, younger visitors are block interactive explains the movement and collision of drawn to the map as a fun, touchable interactive experience. Older landmasses. An animated time-lapse video shows the massive visitors explore interpretive graphics that provide an overview of scale of the glaciers that helped to shape this landscape. Finally, where they are and outline features to explore in the rest of the visitors have the chance to discover evidence of ancient human park and island. activity by examining the bones of the bison antiquus unearthed on Orcas Island. With plenty of space around the tactile map, visitors navigate around it chatting about their experiences in the park and take Note that there is a desire here to include content from Lummi the opportunity to sit and regroup. The area is also perfect for and/or other local Native American people related to the origins programming, providing ample space for children to stand of the islands and Mount Constitution. or sit and for interpreters to make connections between the topographical map and geological content on the wall. 2.0 GEOLOGICAL FORMATIONS 3.0 ORIENTATION

10 Mount Constitution Interpretive Center, Orcas Island, WA | Content/Concept Development 2.0 GEOLOGICAL FORMATIONS 3.0 ORIENTATION Examine ancient bison bones to ‘A Landscape is Born’ - Graphics Animated video showing glacial discover signs of human activity showing the geological formation PRYHPHQWVLQ3XJHW6RXQG of the San Juan Islands

‘Making Mountains’ 3URJUDPPLQJDUHD block interactive

Informal seating - can be incorporated ‘Get Oriented’ - view and touch a elsewhere throughout the gallery topographic map of Orcas Island

11 Exhibit Area: 4.0 Ecology on the Mountain Mount Constitution is one mountain with many climates. Without Visually connected to this wall graphic, exhibit pods on the floor A Surprise View realizing it, visitors have already travelled through some of the explore the rich array of flora, fauna and natural features located at Facing the far end of the building, visitors can’t miss the striking mountain’s many microclimates and ecosystems by the time they different elevations on the mountain. Here, visitors are invited to view of the Observation Tower through the picture window have reached the top. learn more about the meadows, old-growth forests, and freshwater overhead. There is a sense of anticipation and curiosity—they are lakes at lower and mid elevations and the lodgepole pine forests, Inside the interpretive center, the unique ecology of the mountain eager to make connections between the monumental tower and wetlands, and other communities near the summit. is highlighted at the middle of the gallery. On one wall a large, the exhibits they glimpse below it at the far end of the gallery. colorful graphic explains how air cools and releases moisture as it As visitors examine the three exhibit pods they understand that Some visitors will rush to check out these interactive exhibits moves upwards across Mount Constitution. Visitors learn that rare each one relates to a different elevation zone on the mountain. while others will take their time exploring the exhibit pods they plant species like the Arctic aster and the few-flowered sedge make Filled with compelling graphics, visitors are inspired to open see directly in front of them related to the natural communities of their home in the wet, cool climate at the top of the mountain. discovery drawers revealing interesting facts about the plants and Mount Constitution. animals that make their home there. Magnifying experiences, tactile models and a listening station let visitors use all their senses to explore Mount Constitution, from bottom to top. Here visitors also get a sense of how the mountain changes over the course of four distinct seasons. Note that there is a desire here to include content from Lummi and/other Native American peoples related to traditional uses of plants and animals on Orcas Island. 4.0 ECOLOGY ON THE MOUNTAIN

12 Mount Constitution Interpretive Center, Orcas Island, WA | Content/Concept Development Natural light transmits a IRUHVWOLNHHƬHFWWKURXJKRXW 4.0 ECOLOGY ON THE MOUNTAIN

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$EVWUDFWSURƮOHRI Ecology exhibit pods Mount Constitution - interactive experiences include: • discovery drawers • tactile models • ‘Hear the Sounds of the Mountain’ listening station ťPDJQLƮFDWLRQVWDWLRQV Changeable exhibit elements • ‘Four Seasons on the Mountain’

13 Exhibit Area: 5.0 Connections to Moran State Park History Reaching the final exhibit area, visitors find themselves at the Next, visitors explore the Civilian Conservation Corps’ (CCC) Note that there is a desire here to include content from Lummi conceptual summit of the MCIC. Wrapping around the walls role in transporting local sandstone to the site and painstakingly and/other Native American peoples related to contemporary overhead, a large, curved panoramic photo of the view from the constructing the tower, block by block, between 1935 and 1936. relationships with the mountain. Here, hands-on tactile experiences bring this construction process Observation Tower transports visitors to the highest point on the Make Your Mark mountain. Below, an exhibit pod introduces them to some of the to life. Visitors both young and old have the chance to explore the functions of the tower, from former fire lookout to recreational materials used, lift the weight of a sandstone block, and design The concept of communication carries through into the final focal point of Moran State Park. and build their own tower. The area is bookended by a fascinating interactive experience in the gallery. Here, visitors read messages array of artifacts related to the everyday lives of the CCC men who left by others and are inspired to leave their own. A diverse Moving farther into the exhibit space, compelling historical built the tower and so many of the other structures in the park. collection of experiences and memories of the summit, the images and interpretive text introduce visitors to the origins of the messages tell the story of Mount Constitution as an enduring Immediately next to this display, visitors explore artifacts tower and its connection to state park history, beginning with its gathering place through time. establishment by industrialist Robert Moran in 1921. They quickly related to another part of the tower’s history—broadcasting. learn about the park’s history of forest fire prevention and architect Seeing the iconic red beacon once mounted to the TV tower at Exit through the Gift Shop Ellsworth Storey’s vision for a fire lookout modelled on medieval the site and archival photos of the nearby ‘antenna farm’ they A vital component of the Mount Constitution Interpretive Center, European watchtowers. learn that the history of communications at the summit is not the gift shop, run by the Friends of Moran State Park, represents without controversy. Graphic panels highlight contemporary visitors’ final stop before exploring the rest of the park. communications activities still happening today. Here, they may see the same friendly face that greeted them at the reception desk—this desk and the gift shop counter are connected and can be serviced by the same person. Visitors have a &21ǯ(Ǥ7,21672025$1 final opportunity to ask questions, buy a souvenir or two, and get 67$7(3$5.+,6725< oriented before they head down the mountain. Note that the next design phase will involve further exploration of the transition between the exhibit spaces and retail area. Considerations will include decompression space and seating options for those who may wish to rest as members of their party interact with exhibits.

14 Mount Constitution Interpretive Center, Orcas Island, WA | Content/Concept Development Building the Tower Designing the Tower • Civilian Conservation Corps • Ellsworth Storey and the &21ǯ(Ǥ7,21672025$167$7(3$5.+,6725< work on the mountain tower’s architecture

Bringing the view inside: Touch and explore building panoramic image materials used in the tower

Broadcasting artifacts Lift a block of sandstone

‘Make Your Mark’ interactive

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Learn about the views Build Your Own Tower (VWDEOLVKLQJ0RUDQ6WDWH3DUN from Mount Constitution interactive • Robert Moran’s view

15 2.3 Content Matrix The Content Matrix organizes the interpretive components, presenting them in increasing levels of detail. It is a living document that will grow and change through subsequent Overarching Theme design phases, at which point any empty boxes will be filled in. Throughout all phases, the matrix helps to coordinate work done Mount Constitution’s towering height and unique geography by the design team, ensuring that all parties are on the same page. have made it a gathering place for diverse human and natural At this stage, the focus of the matrix is on key messages, preliminary content, potential visitor experiences, and resources. communities, for thousands of years. In the next design phase key messages will be vetted in order Subthemes to ensure that all content is directly tied to the story of Mount Constitution. In addition, the focus of some areas and related 1. Mount Constitution’s story is part of the broader geologic history of the San Juan Islands dating content will need to be site verified and will therefore be subject to change. back millions of years—the more recent glacial history of the San Juan Islands can be seen on the Content Matrix terms: mountain itself and is visible in the panoramic views from the summit. • Themes and subthemes:What are the big ideas 2. Mount Constitution’s distinct climates and natural features make it home that will shape the content? Note that subthemes to a rich diversity of plants and animals. are identified numerically throughout the matrix as they relate to exhibit areas and key messages. 3. Mount Constitution’s summit provides beautiful views and is also highly functional • Key Messages: What are the main ideas that visitors —people have enjoyed it and used it ever since they have inhabited Orcas Island. will walk away with, that will support the themes? • Content: What are the individual stories that support the messages? • Visitor Experiences: How will visitors experience and interact with the content? • Media: What media are used to convey the content and create the experiences? • Resources: What human, artifact, or object resources will help tell the stories?

16 Mount Constitution Interpretive Center, Orcas Island, WA | Content/Concept Development

Exhibit Area Key Messages Content Potential Experiences / Potential Media Resources

1.0 Welcome and Introduction to trails and topography of Mount Pathways to adventure Exterior orientation graphics TBD Arrival Constitution and Moran State Park. • Information on the hiking trails of Moran State Park highlighting those connecting to Mount Constitution: Mount Constitution Loop, Twin Lakes to Mount Constitution Trail and Little There are many trails in Moran State Park—some Summit Trail. Others to be determined. of which you can access from where you are now.

Hiking the trails in Moran State Park is one of the best ways to experience its natural beauty.

Welcome to the Mount Constitution Interpretive Welcome graphics. See a large-scale, Welcome evocative graphic treatment Center. • Similar to key messages welcoming visitors to this special • The history of Mount Constitution dates back to before human use—your journey at the site. (Overarching Theme) Mount Constitution Interpretive Center begins with its geological formation. This unique place has drawn people and natural communities to it for thousands of year—as a Native American welcome message visitor today, you are part of this ongoing story. • Note that tribal input is currently being sought for this. Options for a tribal welcome message will be further addressed in the next design phase.

2.0 Geological (Subtheme 1) A landscape is born ‘A landscape is born’ graphics. Learn Formations The San Juan Islands were formed over millions of • Formation of the San Juan Islands (Accretion) about the geological processes that years by two main geological processes: accretion o The San Juan Islands can be thought of as an underwater mountain range—just like created the unique formation of the and cycles of glaciation and interglacial periods. the North Cascade Mountains they were formed by accretion, the process by which San Juan Islands. material is added to a larger landmass. Accretion, the process of small landmasses o Over 80 million years ago movement of tectonic plates helped move and push ‘Making a mountain’ interactive. colliding with larger ones, formed the bedrock of microcontinents from different locations against the mainland in the Pacific Manipulate a series of blocks to the San Juan Islands in this area. Northwest. learn how the land of the San Juan o These smaller landmasses “docked” against the mainland through the pressure created Islands “docked” and accumulated Cycles of glaciation, or the slow movement of by these collisions. This process helped create the bedrock structure in this area. here millions of years ago. tremendous amounts of ice, shaped the landscape o The bedrock of the San Juan Islands is made up of multiple smaller landmasses from into what it looks like now and continue to this day. different origins that were faulted together in this process. These are called terranes ‘Glacial origins’ video. View an and when they are stacked on top of each as in the San Juan Islands, they are referred animated video showing the glacial to as nappes. On Orcas Island these nappes or layers include: Constitution Formation, movements that carved the Orcas Chert and Deadman Bay Volcanics unit, Turtleback Complex, and East Sound landscape we see today. Group. o Later, glaciers carved bays, channels and other waterways into the faulted terranes and sea-levels rose submerging the San Juan Islands – further research required.

• Shaping the San Juan Islands (Glaciations) o The landscape we see today was shaped by continental glacier advances during the

Exhibit Area Key Messages Content Potential Experiences / Potential Media Resources Pleistocene, a geologic epoch that lasted from 2.5 million years ago to 11,000 years ago. o From the glacial history of North America, it is known that glaciers pushed southward many times as the Earth’s climate cooled and warmed. o Four glacial advances have been mapped in Puget Sound and southern British Columbia. During the last glacial advance, the Vashon Glaciation, an ice sheet called the Puget Lobe flowed over the San Juan Islands and south to the Olympia area. o Glaciers eroded the land surface, carving valleys and smoothing and polishing the land surface. o These glaciers advanced approximately 18,000 years ago and retreated northward by 16,000 years ago. o This erosion exposed hard rock called bedrock just below the Earth’s surface. You can see exposed bedrock on Mount Constitution – exact locations to be researched. o The glacier also left behind material like gravel and sand in lower places as it receded. o There is visible evidence of this glaciation process on Mount Constitution– to be researched. o Cycles of glaciation like this one and the interglacial periods that came after are ongoing, and are part of a natural process of shifting water levels and climate change over time – to be researched.

(Subtheme 3) Bison antiquus and the first people on Orcas Island ‘Archaeological dig’ hands-on The discovery of an ancient bison on Orcas Island • Through carbon dating of bones, scientists have known for many years that a large, ancient interactive. Inspect interactive in 2003 revealed that people have inhabited this species of bison called Bison antiquus roamed this area after the last ice age, around 14,000 bison bones for signs of human area longer than previously believed. years ago. activity. Visitors learn about how • It was believed that the ancient Clovis culture, the ancestors of Native Americans here, did archaeologists discovered more [Note that this key message will need to be vetted not arrive for another 8,000 years. about the history of human by agency archaeological staff and interested tribes. • A discovery at Ayer Pond on Orcas Island in 2003 changed the thinking around the inhabitants on Orcas Island. It will also need to be determined if it can be archaeological timeline of the area. directly related to Mount Constitution.] • Evidence of human butchering on the bones of the bison has lead archaeologists to believe that Clovis people lived here 8,000 years earlier than previously believed.

Native American origin story • Note that tribal input is currently being sought for this.

3.0 Orientation (Overarching theme) You are here Orientation graphics. See an Mount Constitution sits in the middle of Orcas • Mount Constitution is 2,409 feet high making it the highest point on the San Juan Islands. overview of Mount Constitution’s Island, part of the San Juan Island archipelago. • It sits at the center of Moran State Park, a 5,252-acre state park located on Orcas Island in the geography in relation to Orcas San Juan Island archipelago off the coast of Washington State. Island and the San Juan Islands.

There are many more natural and cultural heritage Discovering Mount Constitution Orcas Island topographical map. sites to be explored on Mount Constitution and in • Identification of other cultural and recreational opportunities on Mount Constitution and Interact with a large, tactile Moran State Park. Moran State Park - to be determined. topographical map highlighting

18 Mount Constitution Interpretive Center, Orcas Island, WA | Content/Concept Development

Exhibit Area Key Messages Content Potential Experiences / Potential Media Resources trails, natural features, and cultural You can help to protect the mountain and the park Discovering Mount Constitution sites in Moran State Park and Orcas by treating the natural and cultural heritage here • Respecting the natural and cultural heritage on Mount Constitution includes using trashcans; Island. with respect. doing no harm to wild plants and animals (this includes not feeding them), using park buildings and structures with respect; and keeping pets on leashes and cleaning up after them. • In general, visitors should “take only pictures and leave only footprints.”

4.0 Ecology on the (Subtheme 2) One mountain, many climates ‘One mountain, many climates’ Mountain Drier and warmer at the bottom, cooler and wetter • As air moves up and over Mount Constitution, it cools and is able to hold less moisture. This graphics. See the climatic processes at the top, Mount Constitution contains distinct cool air produces rain and in the winter, snow. related to Orcas Island and Mount microclimates not found elsewhere on the • As a consequence, the summit of Mount Constitution sees double the amount of rainfall as Constitution. mountain. the rest of the San Juan Islands and snowfall when other places on Orcas Island do not. • The cool, wet microclimate at the summit creates the right conditions for unique plants: o Arctic aster on the steep rocky slopes of the summit is a rare species o Few-flowered sedge on the wetland island in Summit Lake is also a rare species o Species unique to the summit – to be researched

As you travel towards the summit of Mount Plant communities at home on the mountain Ecology exhibit pods. Explore Constitution, you encounter a variety of natural • There are many different plant communities that thrive at different sites and elevations on interactive exhibit pods communities including everything from old growth Mount Constitution. highlighting natural communities forests to wetlands. • The species of plants in each community have similar tolerance ranges for the environmental at different elevations and areas on conditions at any given site. Conditions can include things like sunlight and minerals in the the mountain. Pods combine soil. graphics, tactile models, discovery • All of these communities are affected by seasonal weather conditions. drawers, and magnification • Communities and species at the summit: stations. o Lodgepole pine/salal community is found on the high, dry ridges of Mount

Constitution o Lodgepole pine-Douglas fir/Oregon grape community covers much of the summit

plateau of Mount Constitution Herbaceous wetlands are common on the summit plateau; these are dominated by o sedges including slough sedge, beaked sedge, Cusick’s sedge and Sitka sedge

o Others to be researched

• Communities and species at lower elevations: o Old-growth Douglas fir forests

o Mountain meadows, also known as balds, on south and southwest-facing slopes; these include non-forested areas populated by California oatgrass and Idaho fescue

grassland on the uppermost slopes. o Freshwater lakes: Twin Lakes, Summit Lake, Mountain Lake; and small wetlands

adjacent to these lakes. o Sitka spruce can be found in some of these wetland areas; Western red cedar also

dominates in moist areas around the Twin Lakes and Mountain Lake.

o Springs and bogs also attract various plant species - to be researched.

Exhibit Area Key Messages Content Potential Experiences / Potential Media Resources Note that specific locations and elevations of these communities will be confirmed in future matrices.

The complex and fragile ecosystems on Mount Isolated ecosystems ‘Hear the sounds of the mountain’ Constitution are impacted by Orcas Island’s • At Mount Constitution, and Orcas Island more generally, the lack of predators has led to the listening station. Listen to geographic isolation. overpopulation of deer which has adversely impacted naturally occurring plant species and recordings wildlife living on the the birds and insects that rely on them for food and habitat. mountain. Visitors can use this information to help spot animals

• Many animals that you might expect to find in this natural area do not live here, such as and habitats when exploring the skunks, coyotes, fox, bear, cougar. Other stories – to be researched. trails of Mount Constitution.

Native American uses of the mountain • Note that tribal input is currently being sought for this.

5.0 Connections to (Subtheme 3) A mountain in the middle of a park Moran State Park graphic. Learn Moran State Park Human uses of Mount Constitution’s summit and • A former shipbuilder and Seattle mayor, Robert Moran bought land on Orcas Island after about Mount Constitution’s History the land around it are connected to the moving to Orcas to retire in 1905. connections to Moran State Park development of Moran State Park. • Moran wanted the land to be used and preserved—initially he thought about offering it as a history through a graphic panel. See potential observatory site for the University of Washington. the development of the park Robert Moran’s vision of preserving and protecting starting with Robert Moran’s early • He then considered donating it as parkland but at the time there was no state organization to land on Orcas Island, lead to the establishment of vision. accept his donation. This began to change then the Washington State Park and Recreation Moran State Park, with Mount Constitution at its Commission was established in 1913.

center. • He formally donated over 2,700 acres of land that included Mount Constitution to

Washington State Parks in 1921.

Note that more detailed content regarding Robert Moran’s life, his role in preserving the park, and his interactions with homesteaders will be added here in the next design phase.

‘Designing the tower’ graphics. Many people were involved in the design and Towering above it all Preliminary plans and construction of the Observation Tower including a Explore the architecture the • Architecture sketches by E. Storey renowned architect and the labor of Civilian Observation Tower as designed by o Seattle architect Ellsworth Storey, known for using local Northwest materials, was Conservation Corps members. Ellsworth Storey. Understand the contracted to design the Observation Tower as a fire lookout and observation Mount Constitution design process through Storey’s platform for visitors. Tower Hidden Plaque preliminary plans and sketches. o Its final design is based on a medieval European watchtower and is distinct from the

other architecture in the Park from the same period. Design your own tower. Using o The tower went through several design iterations before being finalized. Storey’s plans for inspiration, o In the 1970s restorers found a plaque hidden by the architect reading: TO HIM design your own tower and build it WHO RESTORES, MY SINCERE COMMENDATION ON ONE WHO WOULD with blocks. ALTER, ETERNAL DAMNATION ELLSWORTH STOREY AIA ARCHITECT 1936

• Construction/Civilian Conservation Corps

20 Mount Constitution Interpretive Center, Orcas Island, WA | Content/Concept Development

Exhibit Area Key Messages Content Potential Experiences / Potential Media Resources o The Civilian Conservation Corps, a New Deal program established to combat the ‘Building the tower’ graphics. See CCC-made trail signs Great Depression and provide work for unemployed men, began constructing the graphics related to the Civilian tower in 1935. Conservation Corps’ construction o A crew of 28 men constructed the tower sometimes facing difficult weather of the Observation Tower. Learn conditions. about their and hardships they o The sandstone that was cut and used from a local quarry on Orcas Island, connects endured along the way. the human history on the mountain to the geological story of the San Juan Islands.

Note that content here will be cross-referenced with new exhibits inside the Observation Tower CCC artifacts on display. See CCC CCC standard-issue (completed in June 2017) in future design phases in order to inform like experiences and to avoid equipment and personal effects on footlocker and other duplication of content. display. artifacts including: crosscut saw, hat, patch, flag, canteen, pins Building materials interactive. Explore the materials used in the construction of the tower through touchable samples.

Lift a sandstone block interactive. Use a pulley to lift a block of sandstone to find out just how heavy the building materials were for the tower.

The construction of an Observation Tower in 1936 • A Beautiful and Functional View ‘Bringing the view inside’ graphics. helped Parks staff protect the newly developed o Fire lookout function - to be researched further (resources available through Orcas See a striking large-scale panoramic Moran State Park from fires. Island Historical Museum). photo overhead showing the view o During WWII it also acted as a lookout tower for enemy planes. from the Observation Tower. It also sheltered visitors while they experienced o The tower has always provided a breathtaking views. From the top of the tower on a panoramic views of the surrounding islands and clear day you can see the lakes below on Orcas Island, surrounding islands like ‘Exploring the view’ exhibit pod. mountains. Barnes, Clark, Lummi, Matia, Sucia, and Patos; mountains like Mt. Baker, Mt. Learn how people have used this Rainier, and the Cascades; and cities and towns like Bellingham, Anacortes, and extraordinary view, from the 1930s Vancouver and Victoria in Canada. to current day, through an exhibit o Depending on the season, weather conditions, time of day the view may look very pod. Graphics also explore what the different. view looks like in different weather conditions, times of day, etc.

(Subtheme 3) Making waves on the mountaintop ‘Making waves on the mountaintop’ Because of its height and location, TV and radio • KVOS graphics. Learn about the history of waves broadcast from the top of Mount o KVOS (Kessler’s Voice of Seattle) started as a radio station owned by Louis Kessler in broadcasting and other Constitution can travel very long distances. 1926. communications activities from the o Later, the new owner Rogan Jones began looking for a way to broadcast the TV 1950s to today on Mount

Exhibit Area Key Messages Content Potential Experiences / Potential Media Resources Broadcasters used the Observation Tower site to signals from Bellingham all the way to British Columbia, Canada. He realized that a Constitution. Visitors explore the send their signals, attaching equipment directly to tower on Mount Constitution would be able to do this. history of KVOS-TV and more it and setting up antennas beside it. o Because there was no electricity at the summit Jones hired engineers to keep a contemporary uses of the ‘antenna generator running there. They used an army radio to communicate with the TV farm’ near the tower. Even though these antennas have come down, there station in Bellingham. are still antennas used for broadcasting purposes on o KVOS-TV began broadcasting on June 3, 1952. Broadcasting artifacts. See artifacts Red KVOS beacon Mount Constitution. o In 1954, a building at this location was built as an office for KVOS-TV. related to KVOS’s broadcasting o KVOS placed a TV signal tower directly next to the Mt. Constitution tower, a red history. KVOS fuses beacon sat on top of this tower to increase its visibility – to be researched. o In 2009, broadcasting had moved from analog to digital and the metal tower at the summit of Mount Constitution was taken down. o KVOS-TV still has a tower in the ‘antenna farm’ adjacent to the summit site, as do

other broadcasters.

o The placement of these antennas was not without opposition and controversy – to be researched.

‘Communicating from the (Subtheme 3) • Current Communications Functions mountain’ graphics. Explore the Today, Mount Constitution is an active o The antenna farm owned by Mount Constitutions Sites. Inc. hosts many North West science behind the communications communications site for broadcasters, government Washington television and radio stations including KVOS-TV and KISM-FM in five activities on the mountain. agencies, and many others. transmission and communication buildings. o Other users at the site include government agencies, radio stations, logging firms, freight companies and food processors. o East of the antenna farm, the US Coast Guard leases a one-acre site from Washington State Parks and operates a 100-foot tower with microwave dishes to monitor small vessels.

o The University of Washington operates a seismographic telemetry station on Mount

Constitution to transmit information about earthquakes. o The Washington State Department of Transport (WSDOT) provides data for a ferry

app via a tower on the summit. Visitors may have even used the app themselves when coming to Orcas Island. o Other ‘Antenna farm’/Current broadcasting functions including US Forest Service tower – to be researched.

Contemporary Native American relationship with the mountain • Note that tribal input is currently being sought for this.

(Subtheme 3) Leave your mark ‘Make your mark’ interactive. Leave As a visitor today you are connected to Mount • Similar to key message. a message for future visitors Constitution and are part of Moran State Park’s through a hands-on interactive. history—leave your mark for others to discover.

22 Mount Constitution Interpretive Center, Orcas Island, WA | Content/Concept Development 3.0 Design Approach

3.1 DESIGN APPROACH The design approach, supported by the interpretive themes, gives structure and character to the overall visitor experience at the site. Throughout the interpretive center the concept of ‘bringing Mount Constitution inside’ works to visually and physically unify exhibit experiences as visitors move through the gallery. The bedrock of Mount Constitution is exposed through a ribbon of interconnected and colossal landform shapes through out the gallery, emerging from its walls and floors. Generally, materials, finishes and graphics will be tied to the concept of ascending the mountain. The darker, natural colors in the Geological Formations and Ecology on the Mountain exhibit areas will brighten as visitors approach the conceptual summit of the mountain in the Connections to Moran State Park History exhibit area.

23 3.1.1 Floorplan 1. The ‘One Mountain, Many Climates’ graphic will give visitors the impression of climbing Mount Constitution. This large-scale wall graphic is visually and conceptually linked to the ‘extruded’ landforms below. 2. Central elements such as the topographical map and interactive ecological exhibit pods are kept low in order to respect the view of the Observation Tower through the oculus. 3. An open area near the topographical map provides space for interpreters to deliver programs to visitors. 4. Visitors explore the ecological stories and the variety of 7. ecosystems and microclimates at each of the ‘extruded’ 1. land forms, suggestive of earth’s internal layers 2. 5. Light permeates the ‘tree-like’ vertical structures of the architectural envelope, sprinkling the topographical 2. map and exhibit pods with natural light.

6. A surprise view overhead connects the indoor experience 6. 2. of the Mount Constitution Interpretive Center to the 3. 2. outdoor Observation Tower and views beyond. 7. The Reception and Gift Shop areas are designed to allow one person to watch and control visitors coming and going from the gallery 5. while to attending to cash transactions. BASE OF MOUNT 4. 680Ǯ,72)02817 3.1.2 Visitor Flow CONSTITUTION CONSTITUTION The intended visitor flow for the interpretive center encourages visitors to spend some time at each exhibit area as they move through the gallery (indicated by red arrows). However, pathways are left clear in certain areas allowing visitors to bypass exhibits based on their interest and time constraints. For example, paths on either side of the ecological exhibit pods (2.) allow visitors to move quickly to Observation Tower-related exhibits. Note that this intended visitor flow is appropriate with the working assumption that no visitor fee would be required.

24 Mount Constitution Interpretive Center, Orcas Island, WA | Content/Concept Development 3.1.2 Architectural Considerations The design approach incorporates a general respect for the architecture of the building. It groups exhibits in the central space of the gallery, allowing natural light to filter in through windows on the perimeter of the building. The height of the exhibit structures complements the gradual slope of the ceiling, allowing the iconic view of the Observation Tower to remain a highlight.

25 Materials Taking cues from the natural environment of Moran State Park Using the concept of a ‘journey to the top of mountain’ as a and distinctive Civilian Conservation Corps-built structures starting point, colors and textures grow lighter and brighter as around the site, the exhibits and graphics juxtapose natural and visitors move through the gallery to the conceptual summit of historic man-made materials with contemporary elements and Mount Constitution. This approach is reflected in the stains used finishes. Wood, stone and patina metal contrast with brightly on wood finishes and in graphic color palletes transitioning from colored powder-coated metals and acrylics. This highlights the earthy forest hues to bright blues representing sky and water. Stone human footprint on the land and suggests a passing of time from and rock finishes are used through the gallery. However, as visitors a simpler age to modern day. move towards exhibits that explore the Observation Tower, organic geological shapes and rough finishes become more polished, showing the shaping of rock and stone by human hands.

26 Mount Constitution Interpretive Center, Orcas Island, WA | Content/Concept Development 3.2 GRAPHIC APPROACH The graphic approach for the Interpretive Center pays homage Additional graphic elements such as, “Did You Know” call-outs to the land and its people. Geologically-inspired formations or and journal-like tactile displays round out the graphic program. panels graphically communicate the history and stories of Mount Constitution through large-scale photos and text. These graphics emerge out of the walls and floors flooded with natural-toned colors. In contrast to these organic-shaped graphics, a secondary style overlays them to communicate wayfinding information. The visitor’s “journey up the mountain” is guided by a contemporary take on the traditional park signage. These graphics are colorful and decidedly man-made.

27 Colour Palette Fonts Taking a nod from nature, gentle earth tones will enrich the The sans-serif font, Calibri, and the serif font, Calisto, have been interior space of the MCIC, complimented by brighter tones carefully selected to support the graphic approach. o f similar hues. Calibri is an easy-to-read rounded font that’s warm and friendly. Calisto, also a highly legible font, performs equally well as body copy and display type—providing flexibility for use in Area Headers and content-heavy graphics.

CALIBRI ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz 1234567890

ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz 1234567890

CALISTO

ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz 1234567890

28 Mount Constitution Interpretive Center, Orcas Island, WA | Content/Concept Development Graphic Typicals Graphic typicals refer to a family of graphic elements which directly correspond to the content hierarchy. Below are samples of story graphics and a “Did You Know”-style call-out.

6725<*5$3+,& Š','<28.12:š*5$3+,& Sliver of solid Overlaid graphic Feature image on unique overlay 6RPHJUDSKLFVPD\IXQFWLRQDVŠIRFXVFLUFOHVš colour corresponds with feature image shape — gives the impression of ŜWUDQVSDUHQWVXUIDFHFDOOVDWWHQWLRQWRVSHFLƮF with content area organic rock formations detail behind it

Proud and Proud and ELEVELEV 2200 dedicated dedicated EpeEpe llor sunt et ver ferun totatota qquiui ommo blaut ppeded qquia.uia. teams teams simussimus simus mamagnam,gnam, que eatet Epe llor sunt et ver Epe llor sunt et ver labo.labo. Et qquisuis conseconsequat.quat. ferun tota qui ommo ferun tota qui ommo blaut ped quia Content — may include blaut ped quia quotes and factoids As incid est est plit arciet As incid est est plit arciet voluptatem volorehenis alibus voluptatem volorehenis alibus mintet vitatur accabor as sit. In mintet vitatur accabor as sit. In porat. Udit, simoluptam, vel porat. Udit, simoluptam, vel in custem que lacero veliqui in custem que lacero veliqui repelloreped que nostecus, to repelloreped que nostecus, to dolupid moluptinum quunt, qui dolupid moluptinum quunt, qui voluptam, eatem. voluptam, eatem. Doluptur sit hariatusam voles Doluptur sit hariatusam voles id quibus issum aciis sitempora id quibus issum aciis sitempora illuptatem sit, consequ ostibus, illuptatem sit, consequ ostibus, cus dellit il iliqui consero dolore cus dellit il iliqui consero dolore que minul lauta sedi vellit renis et que minul lauta sedi vellit renis et eum ad quiam ute ata audae que eum ad quiam ute ata audae que que aliaes quis et abo. Ex et dio que aliaes quis et abo. Ex et dio tota destaxim eossinimus. “ On nos dolorunt et etur reperovite tota destaxim eossinimus. quiat eum illate vent, ipidel mil ius, sed maximusdae veria sunt lant od ut autempos dolupta “ On nos dolorunt et etur reperovite spedisquidel molenissus adignat.” quiat eum illate vent, ipidel mil ius, sed maximusdae veria sunt —Name Here, CCC lant od ut autempos dolupta spedisquidel molenissus adignat.” Did You Know …

—Name Here, CCC LANT SED VENT Otaepe pro omnis et aut accatio. Nam voluptatque PDJQDWXUVLDUXPLQLVH[FHUXPTXDWXUDOLTXHRIÀFWH voluptam excerum quam Background nature image LANT SED VENT Otaepe pro omnis et aut accatio. Nam voluptatque PDJQDWXUVLDUXPLQLVH[FHUXPTXDWXUDOLTXHRIÀFWH voluptam excerum quam helps locate the visitor in the ‘journey up the mountain’ experience

29 3.3 TEXT APPROACH The following is an approach to developing text for the exhibits Find a Voice Highlight Hidden Stories within the Mount Constitution Interpretive Center (MCIC). The All text is written with a particular voice or style—think of it From myths about rivers running under the mountain to text approach outlines the voice, length, format and hierarchy as the “speaker” or the “narrator”. This voice isp resent on all the real story of Ellsworth Storey hiding a secret message at to be used in the exhibit text, graphic panels and audiovisuals. interpretive panels and in any AV programs, and guides the visitor the Observation Tower, Mount Constitution’s history is filled It aims to respond to the visitorship and integrate seamlessly through the exhibit material. This voice helps to unify an exhibit. with fascinating local anecdotes. Distinct sidebar text and/or with the graphic approach. It also helps to engage visitors by stimulating their interest, their separate panels will reveal these whimsical, hidden stories of the imagination and their sense of discovery and wonder. mountain. 3.3.1 CONSIDERATIONS The panels throughout the interpretive center will be written as if Make it Personal Write for the Visitor spoken by a friendly local with long-time ties to Moran State Park Over many years, personal stories related to Mount Constitution Based on input from staff and stakeholders during the Content and Orcas Island. With warmth and enthusiasm, they are eager to share their love of both the natural and cultural history of the have been passed down and sometimes recorded in writing Development Workshop, it is likely that a few key demographics or oral histories. Quotes from Robert Moran, members of the will be engaging with the interpretive text at the MCIC: mountain with newcomers and islanders alike. They come across as knowledgeable and excited, but not an expert or academic. Civilian Conservation Corps, and potentially individuals from the • Families, both local and from out of town They use a friendly and conversational tone, make jokes and never Lummi and/or Swinomish tribes will help highlight the personal • International visitors sound like they are talking down to visitors. significance of the mountain and the park, allowing visitors to get to know individuals with deep connections to this place. • Visitors arriving by vehicle To generate enthusiasm our “speaker” points out details that only • Hikers and bikers a local could know, injects colorful anecdotes, and uses analogies Feature Site-Speciﬁc Artifacts • Shoulder-season users to help make content relevant to a general audience. Artifacts related to the Observation Tower’s architecture, the Note that it may be desirable to provide exhibit text in alternate Connect Indoor Experiences to the Outdoors Civilian Conservation Corps, and the summit’s broadcasting languages (in publication or audio form) to cater to international history will populate the exhibits in the MCIC. Captions will visitors. This option will be explored in the next design phase. Wherever appropriate in the MCIC, text panels will directly identify objects, highlighting their specific connection to the address visitors, asking them to use the information they are history of Mount Constitution. Write at an Appropriate Reading Level engaging with to make discoveries at the lakes, meadows, forests and trails they will encounter in rest of the park. Learning how to Based on the visitorship, we recommend writing text for a identify local plant species, animal activity, and ecological zones, Grade 7-8 reading level. This will make it accessible to the average visitors will use their new knowledge to understand the park on parent, encouraging family discussions and enabling younger a deeper level. visitors to read on their own as well. It will also keep language accessible for readers for whom English is a second language. Stories will still provide enough interest for older, more discerning visitors. In general the galleries will: • Strive for a Grade 7-8 reading level in header, précis, and body copy throughout. • Include some experiences at a lower reading level to appeal to young visitors: e.g. discovery drawers at the Ecology Exhibit Pods and interactive experiences in the Observation Tower area. • Include some quotes which will be at a higher grade reading level.

30 Mount Constitution Interpretive Center, Orcas Island, WA | Content/Concept Development 3.4 APPROACH TO IMAGE ACQUISITION Employ User-friendly Language Provide a Clear Text Hierarchy During the Content/Concept Development phase APA has worked Words and sentence structure in all text panels will be simple and Most visitors want to choose what they read and to what extent. to identify potential sources for imagery to be used in graphic informal to make it easier for visitors to enjoy a casual learning This is especially true for those with limited time. Providing a clear elements in the new Mount Constitution Interpretive Center. To experience. More complex ideas will be conveyed with the support hierarchy of text will allow visitors that choice. Brevity of copy date, these sources include: of images and graphics. encourages visitors to engage with the text. The layers of text and • Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission collections Specialized vocabulary will be avoided and text will be as concise their approximate length include: » Historical images including Asahel Curtis Lantern Slides as possible. Exceptions will be made for geological and ecological Header » Contemporary images terms that will help explain the natural environments that visitors Grabs the visitor’s attention and introduces the key idea of the • University of Washington Digital Archives see and experience on the mountain. Where these are unfamiliar panel. (3-7 words) • Washington State Digital Archives to a general audience, they will be defined in the same sentence. Précis • Orcas Island Historical Museum Focus on Key Concepts A short sentence or two that uses playful language or an In general, the approach to image acquisition will work to: Individual panels will focus on one key concept so that visitors are interesting fact to draw the visitor in. It might also “explain” a • Highlight and celebrate the Washington State Parks and not overloaded with excess information. cryptic header. (15-25 words) Recreation Commission’s rich collection of historical images. • Use owner-supplied images whenever possible in order Be Concise Body to increase efficiency with image acquisition. Focuses on one key idea. (up to 120 words) Visitors encounter interpretive text in a setting that is not • Establish a review process by which WSPRC and APA conducive to reading; on average, a visitor spends less than 45 Sidebar work together to identify the most appropriate and seconds viewing an interpretive panel. Panel text will use short, Provides opportunities to convey little known facts or captivating compelling images for all interpretive graphics. clear sentences without unnecessary adverbs and avoiding passive stories that relate to the key idea. Specialized sidebars will also be constructions. Note that in the next phase of design, work will involve developing an opportunity for telling local stories or personal memories about content outlines and identifying key images for each exhibit within Make Sure Text is Inclusive and Bias-Free the mountain. (25-75 words,) the MCIC. Captions Interpretive text will avoid stereotypical, sexist, biased, and outmoded attitudes and terms. Describe photos, objects and artifacts. (20-40 words)

Richard Lien, Partner AldrichPears Associates 400-1455 West Georgia Street, Vancouver, BC V6G 2T3 Phone: 604-398-2907 | Email: [email protected]