Sailboat/Trees Update: We Need Your Help!

As you know, the Sailboat/Trees sculpture by George Ramsay in Covell Park was temporarily removed at the end May. Upon removing the sculpture, we discovered multiple anchor bolts securing the sculpture were rusted. No amount of lubrication or heat was able to loosen or remove them so unfortunately three of the bolts had to be cut. Because of this, we are facing unexpected expenses. Each of the three ‘masts’ for the sculptural sails has an 18” concrete pier below ground in which the anchor bolts were secured when they pored the piers. These piers are necessary to ensure Sailboat/Trees, which was placed in an area that was previously marshland, can withstand the high amount of wind it experiences from its location on the open causeway of Covell Park. Because multiple bolts are no longer useable, we have been advised by engineers that the most stable and enduring solution is to bore out each of the three concrete piers and pour new ones, complete with new anchor assemblies and bolts.

We feel fortunate that the initial restoration project received significant support from the White Lake community. We obtained grant funding from the White Lake Community Fund of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County and the City of Whitehall – totalling $14,000. However, this unexpected structural issue has created additional expenses bringing the overall costs to $21,000. Thankfully, the White Lake Community Fund have committed additional funding and other donors have stepped up to the plate, but we are still $3,000 short. If you are able to contribute anything - even $5 - we would very much appreciate the support! Along with restoring the sculpture, a new plaque will be installed. This plaque will acknowledge all those who brought the sculpture to fruition in 2010 and 2026 donors who support the restoration with a $100 or more donation.

To donate, please visit https://givebutter.com/sailboat-trees

Left: the Sailboat/Trees site today. Right: George Ramsay at the Sailboat/Trees dedication in 2010.

In the meantime, check out some work-in-progress photos from our friend Greg Tuggle at Painting Services of West Michigan, who is doing the restoration work!