Evergreen Federal Bank is sponsoring Imagination Village as a means of supporting the Grants Pass Association of Realtors new Family House at the Three Rivers Hospital here in Grants Pass. The six fanciful houses have been imagined by local artists and built by local contractors, with no apparent limit to the flow of creative juices. The houses are to be auctioned off at the Grants Pass High School Gymnasium on December 18, 2004

The village was located in the Grants Pass Daily Courier parking lot located on 7th Street between "J" and "K" Streets. They have now been sold and have been transported to their new owners around the state.

All photographs by Mark Simonds

The Story: Chapter One T'was in a northwest town where all were waiting For a special event -- there was no hesitating.   With much to remember and so much to do, Builders and artists were all part of the crew.   They hammered and painted -- they worked day and night. The pressure was on to get it all right.   With many details, everyone planned it with care; So when the time came, all the kids could be there.   A Village from Imagination, was no easy task; But when the town saw it, everyone gave a gasp.   It's beautiful! It's wonderful! -- they all had their say, And they'd never forget this magical day.

Toy Solders Solders maintain guard over the village so fine, With clock overhead lest you forget suppertime.   With oh such good watchers all had better behave. They're alert for scoundrels and the occasional knave.

Tulip Fairy Cottage Artist: John & Vicki Magallon with Shane Scott + Charlie Soares

Buried deep in the forest oh so enchanted, This garden is protected by spells encanted.   Here fairies and pixies can relax from their play And enjoy sweet nectar in respite from the day.

Gypsy Wagon Artist: Robert Cremins Builder: Harry Ashley Carriage: Richard Stricklan

In times not so long past, gypsies wandered the land. They entertained townships with dance and nimble hand.   They conjured up mysteries of the future and past. Their crystals have shown visions both tiny and vast.   And for children they offered stirring puppet shows, From their own traveling home in the curtained windows.

Blackberry Hollow School Artist: Linda Killian Smith Builder: R. Crume Construction

For school age children in a community small Opportunities were narrow for one and all.   But a one-room school could tweak a curious mind To search for the wonders the scholarly could find.

Dreamcatcher Artist: Heidi Keller Builder: Dave Adams

Native Americans thrived in the great northwest Midst tempest and trials that would appraise the best.   The spirits were invoked to suffer aid on them, Through their action, stylized painting, and totem.   And nature would respond to their needs and their dreams By providing land and sea, with all that it teems.

Treehouse Artist: Janet Higgins Builder: Rick Evans Construction

Everyone knows of the great forests of the land, Where all the elves and wild wood gnomes live hand in hand   With natures bounty and nurturing soul unbound. It's here that the tree house can sometimes be found.   If your spirit is true as you pass through its door With the spirit of giving, you'll surely find more.

Edingboro Castle Artist: Bob Eding Builder: Gordon Longhurst Carpentry: Frank and Jason Satow

In the days of lore, when minstrels sang of gallant feats And dragons harassed men with the pound of wing beats,   The castle was a refuge, where all would be safe, From manor lord to peasant, from noble to waif.   Even today these tall, welcoming walls can bring Peace and harmony of which but angels can sing.