Denise Stoughton, photo: Greg Gilbert

The transformative and healing power of stories shared, even between so-called strangers is undeniable. Journal entries written in notebooks inside the Kindred Spirit Mailbox reveal a common thread of human connection.

Inspired by the Kindred Spirit Mailbox of Bird Island, Bainbridge Island resident Denise Stoughton approached the Park District in 2022 about the possibility of hosting a similar mailbox. On May 16, 2023, Kindred Spirit Bainbridge became a reality in Upper Fort Ward Park!

Nestled in a quiet woodland clearing overlooking Rich Passage, the Bainbridge Island Kindred Spirit Mailbox and two adjacent benches provide a peaceful setting for contemplation. Here you may read journal entries of others and or write your own - a Kindred Kids mailbox provides separate notebooks, crayons and markers. Both kindred mailboxes are set in a tree-of-life sculpture designed and created by local artist Dick Strom.

Taking a cue from the Bird Island Kindred Spirit whose journals are archived at UNC Wilmington, the Bainbridge Historical Museum in downtown Winslow will archive our journals. Amber Buell, the museum’s Executive Director says, “the museum is overjoyed to be a part of preserving and showcasing these remarkable pieces of history and the connections they foster. We’re delighted to have the journals safely nestled within our collection and to share their stories with visitors from near and far.”

The museum will host an Outpost Kindred Spirit Mailbox, offering an accessible alternative to the Fort Ward Kindred Spirit for walk-on ferry passengers day-tripping on Bainbridge Island and for those with physical limitations. Amber adds, the museums Executive Director says, “The museum is thrilled to serve as an outpost. The outpost mailbox will be installed later this summer.