Turn meaningful memories into lasting displays with custom framing.
The Story of the Azalea Ship
Preserving family history through custom framing is one of the most meaningful ways to protect your story. Whether it’s a photograph, heirloom, or keepsake, the right frame helps it last for generations. This story, shared by one of our customers, brings that idea to life.
A Customer's Story
“This photograph is from approximately 1924. It is of the ship Azalea; a three masted schooner used for fishing in Alaska. It was my great grandfather’s boat used for salmon fishing. He owned the ship, and a salmon cannery business called Doug Harbor Packing off of Kodiak Island, Alaska. They would send out skiffs from the main boat to catch salmon. After a day’s haul, they would come back loaded with fish, fill up the boat, and they’d take the boat in to unload. Just after WWII began, they took the Azalea in and demasted it to use it as a barge carrying supplies for the war. Unfortunately, during a large storm in the Aleutians, the Azalea broke her line and sunk.”
Stories like this connect generations. They also deserve to be preserved with care.
A Piece of Maritime History
The Azalea was constructed in Washington alongside its sister ship, the Wawona. Both vessels played a role in Seattle’s maritime past and were often photographed together.
The Wawona remained on display in Seattle Harbor until 2009. Over time, decay required its dismantling. However, many pieces were saved and now live on as part of a large-scale installation at the Museum of History & Industry (MOHAI).
This makes the Azalea photograph even more special. It captures a moment tied to both family and regional history.
Designing a Frame That Honors the Story
For this 102-year-old photograph, our Monroe Frame Shop team focused on both preservation and style.
“We chose a classic molding to reflect the era. Then, we added a traditional fabric liner to enhance the historical feel. These design choices support the story rather than distract from it.
To protect the photograph, we used museum glass. This provides the highest level of clarity and UV protection. We also added spacers to keep the glass from touching the photo. That detail helps prevent long-term damage.”
Every decision was made with longevity in mind. The goal was simple: preserve this piece for many more years.
Your Story Matters Too
It could be your grandmother’s coin purse. Maybe your great-grandfather’s war medals. Or even your child’s first outfit. These items tell your story in a powerful way.
We’ve seen so many unique pieces come through our Frame Shop. From local history projects like Framing a Dairy Freeze Mural to one-of-a-kind stories like Framing a Piece of Niagara Falls History | Annie Edson Taylor, each project carries its own meaning and memories.
Custom framing turns those pieces into something you can display and share every day. It also protects them from damage over time.
Bring your treasures into our Frame Shop. We’ll help you create something both beautiful and lasting.
Click on each image in the gallery to zoom in.
Frame Restoration Services
Sometimes, the frame itself holds just as much meaning as what’s inside.
At our Ben Franklin Crafts and Frame Shop stores in Bonney Lake and Monroe, WA, we offer frame restoration for sentimental or historical pieces. Our framers carefully inspect each item and recommend the best approach.
We can repair popped corners, damaged plaster, and peeling paint. In many cases, we can bring an old frame back to life while preserving its original character.
Preserve What Matters Most
Custom framing is more than décor. It’s a way to honor your history and protect it for the future.
If you have a piece that matters to you, bring it in. We’re here to help you preserve it with care and craftsmanship.
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Learn more about our 2 Frame Shops:
BONNEY LAKE Location: View their webpage >
MONROE Location: View their webpage >
