Seattle Stone: A Symbol of Galway's Transatlantic Connection

Located on the north side of Fr. Griffin Road between Quay Street and Flood Street, the Seattle Stone is more than just a rock; it's a symbol of the enduring friendship between Galway and Seattle. Unveiled in 1993, the monument resulted from the Seattle Sister Cities project designed by Seattle artist Don Scott. A twin monument exists in Seattle, erected in 2001, with both stones precisely oriented to point towards each other through the Earth. The stone features a bronze marker displaying Galway's geophysical data, highlighting the geographical coordinates of Seattle. The angled facet on the stone indicates the chord angle through the earth from Galway to Seattle, representing the shortest distance between the two cities. This unique monument serves as a reminder of the cultural and economic ties between Galway and its American sister city. Galway and Seattle formalized their Sister City relationship on March 12, 1986. The connection between the two cities fosters various exchanges, including cultural, educational, and trade initiatives, strengthening the bonds between the Irish and American communities. The Seattle Stone stands as a testament to this partnership, inviting visitors to reflect on the global connections that enrich Galway's identity.