Pioneer Park was created from 4 acres of uncut Western Red Cedar trees purchased by the Whatcom Old Settlers Association in 1901 for the purpose of holding its annual pioneer picnic, a continuing tradition that is today considered one of the oldest celebrations of its kind in the Pacific Northwest. In 1925, a dance hall building and a headquarters building were constructed at the entrance to the park. With an interest in preserving local pioneer history, the Old Settlers Association has gradually moved abandoned pioneer structures to the park beginning in 1935. The slab cedar houses at Pioneer Park, built in the late 1800s, have all been relocated here from their original sites of construction at various locations around Whatcom County. Today these preserved cabins are the most important assemblage of this distinctive regional style of rustic pioneer architecture. Starting late spring(mid April)the main gate to the “village” is opened and closed Monday thru Friday by the city Parks department, hours may vary. Starting May 15, 11:30 to 4:30pm onsite tour guides will provide tours through the cabins, cost is $5.The summer tour season ends September 15th. Other times of year the village is closed and only open for special events or requests.