This year marks the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks on U.S. soil. It is a time to remember the courage of so many first responders that sacrificed their lives to save others, and a time to honor the memory of all the victims of the attacks.

Do you know the story behind the Tiles Flag Project that is displayed at Splash Landing? A few weeks after the tragedy that occurred on September 11, 2001, Brenda Ewing, a former Park Center ceramics teacher, was working with her young students creating ceramic boxes.  She instructed them to decorate the top of their boxes however they chose. Having recently witnessed the events of September 11^th, one boy chose to garnish his box with a plane crashing into the Pentagon. It became apparent that children as well as adults are affected by such tragic events and need a way to express their grief, as well as their support for their country.

As a result of this experience, Brenda proposed “Hands for America”. One hundred and forty-four members of the community (children and adults) signed up for a 45-minute ceramics workshop culminating in the production of an 8 ½’ by 12’ ceramic tile mural that is on display at Splash Landings. Each participant placed their handprint and name on a red or blue tile. The tiles, having been glazed and fired, were then assembled to form an American flag which is proudly displayed on the wall at Splash Landings. This project serves as a thoughtful memorial to the events of September 11^th, but also as a timeless piece of artwork created by members of our community. Wonder whose handprints are represented? Click here to see the list and location of handprints. 

In honor of the 20^th Anniversary of September 11^th, you may notice park district staff wearing remembrance ribbon pins to honor those who were impacted by this tragedy.