Reimagining Aquatic Park & Pier
Stories matter. They connect us to one another, by finding fragments of ourselves in each other.
Humans have been telling stories throughout history, even before the first hieroglyphics appeared. Those first oral stories were a way of connecting to one another, by finding fragments of ourselves in each other. This helped us to find common ground and shared understanding.
Today, we still engage in storytelling and it is important to see ourselves reflected in our stories and in each other. Even in an age of relentless 24/7 news cycles and social media, a good story still holds tremendous power. Stories connect generations across time and connect us to universal truths and to community.
Aquatic Park and Pier is no different than the basis for any other story telling platform. There is a rich cultural, geographical and maritime history here. As part of our effort to reimagine the future of this unique place, we first need to look back and hear the stories of those who remember how it all began. It began with their own personal story, connection to the place and to each other, in community.
We issued a call for stories on our website and through social media. The stories we received in return are moving, and tug on our emotions. We want to share them with you. We will begin to tell these stories on our blog and social channels.
They touch on childhoods and personal growth. Some recall their first opportunity to get out on the water through Sea Scouts decades ago. Now they give back in return so others, regardless of ability to pay, can also have that same opportunity to learn to sail on the bay. Many Sea Scouts share that the program fostered their personal growth and leadership development.
Here is a story from Tamara Sokolov:
My family moved to San Francisco when I was a child, and our family was very poor by San Francisco standards. I didn't have access to league sports, camps, or other extracurriculars. One day I stumbled on the SF Sea Scout Base in Aquatic Park. I was able to join and spend several days a week, year-round, in Aquatic Park, for less than $5 per month. There I made life-long friends, grew to love historic wooden boats, and this unique and historic site. I now give back by running the all-girls Sea Scout group, which continues to grow and bring teens down to Aquatic Park several times a week. We currently have over 75 youth members in the Sea Scout program, coming down to Aquatic Park weekly, to experience sailing, rowing, kayaking, boat building, and more.
Aquatic Park & Pier is full of history. Everyone enjoys the park differently and we want to hear your stories!