Story by Kate Kuhlman, Great Peninsula Conservancy

When Henry Sehmel emigrated from Germany in the 1880s, would he ever imagine that his homesteaded land in Gig Harbor would become a “diamond” of a park in the South Sound? PenMet Park’s Sehmel Homestead Park boasts some of the best baseball and soccer fields in the region. Most of this park – 76 acres – features natural areas protected by a conservation easement, including meadows, ponds, forests and trails. Come explore Sehmel Homestead Park and connect with nature!

History, collaboration and recreation for all
Sehmel Homestead Park is the story of four generations who lived on the land for over 110 years, as well as the story of neighbors, community groups and government agencies who came together to protect this land forever. Many people joined with Great Peninsula Conservancy to raise money to purchase the property and turn it into a park for both active and passive recreation. We succeeded! Today kids and adults of all abilities go to Sehmel to play sports, watch birds, learn about trees, walk their dog, or take care of a trail.

Learn about nature and take care of this special place
Great Peninsula Conservancy is teaming up with Pierce Conservation District, PenMet Parks and other partners to encourage more people to discover the natural side of Sehmel Homestead Park. The trails are open to the public every day. You also may enjoy a guided nature walk or lend a hand at a volunteer work party. Master Gardeners has a demonstration garden and offers free gardening talks. Come explore and join your neighbors in taking care of this special place!

For more information, please contact Kate Kuhlman at kate@greatpeninsula.org or 360-373-3500, or visit GreatPeninsula.org. Great Peninsula Conservancy protects natural habitats, rural landscapes, and open spaces throughout the Great Peninsula. GPC holds the conservation easement that ensures Sehmel Homestead Park will stay natural forever.

 Photo credit: Liz Satterthwaite