Published on June 05, 2026
The City of Renton proudly celebrates its 125th Birthday, marking more than a century of community, growth, and shared history.
As part of this milestone, the Renton Historical Society invited students across the Renton School District to share what Renton means to them. Students across the District demonstrated creativity, pride, and a strong sense of community through their submissions, helping to document and celebrate the spirit of Renton during this historic anniversary year.
Before the June 1 Council meeting, elected officials, students and their families, and members of the Renton Historical Society gathered for a reception to recognize 25 contest winners (from 325 participants). The students were able to hear words of encouragement from former Lindbergh High School student, Jacki (Watson) Delfin, who inspired this contest from her experience of being honored by the City Council for the essay she wrote in third grade to celebrate Renton's 100th birthday.
“Many years ago during the Renton Centennial, I participated in an essay contest about Renton’s history and was recognized at a City Council meeting. That was my very first City Council meeting. So today is a very full circle moment for me. That was the first time I felt like my voice and my ideas mattered, and it helped me feel connected to my community,” said Delfin. She concluded, “today I have the privilege of working for the City of Renton, and it’s inspiring to see young people engaging with the city they call home. The ideas and stories you shared will remind us all of what makes Renton special.”
These 25 students’ submissions demonstrated exceptional creativity, reflection, pride, and a deep appreciation for the city they call home.
Renton City Council extends its gratitude to all participating students, educators, and schools for their contributions to this celebration of Renton’s past, present, and future.
We're inviting you to help celebrate Renton's 125th anniversary. Stop by our video booth at specific events throughout the summer and tell us what you love about Renton or let us know what Renton means to you.
Your video may be compiled and featured in city communications, including on social media. Your video may even be memorialized in a time capsule for future Renton to discover.
Find our booth at the following events:
Learn more and stay updated with where we will be at rentonwa.gov/125TH.
communications@rentonwa.gov
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