Petersen Rock Garden closing for spruce-up

After having been open for over 70 years, the owner of Petersen Rock Garden in Redmond said Thursday they are “taking a needed break in order to evaluate and identify critical areas for preservation, restoration, repair and timely improvements. “

This closure will last from Friday until May 24, the start of Memorial Day weekend, said the statement issued by owner Susan Caward, and Development Director Own Evans..

“This period of time is in part for the benefit of consideration of the Petersen Rock Garden and Museum into the (National Register of Historic Places) by mid-February at the review ofDiana Painter [diana.painter@state.or.us]National Register/Survey Coordinatorof the Oregon State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO),” the statement said.

“In order to qualify, there is a period of public notice and review consideration for this honor and distinction,” the popular tourism attraction noted.

“We hope there is an outpouring of support for this process,” the announcement said. “And also this is for our local significance as a place of wonder and public sentiment which has helped to remind us of how the amazing imagination and legacy of Rasmus Petersen, who built a local tourist attraction from the first stone to the last, could have an impact on this region forfuture generations.”

“Prepare to keep and have the Rock Garden open, with the generous help and contributions and kind gestures of the many local, national and international visitors who have supported over these past 70 years, on Memorial Day Weekend 2013 and for the future.

“Thank you for your support and check our progress on Facebook and our soon to be released website,” the announcement concluded.