What’s in a Name: Historical Context for the names of the North Village.
Stacks of lumber for truss manufacturing. Courtesy, Sonoma County Library
The Evolution of the North Village Site
Many are unaware that the North Village site's history is deeply rooted in its origins as a lumber mill, which operated from the 1930s until 1990. IDACO, the mill’s first operator, played a vital role in supplying wood for Sonoma County residents and construction projects. Wood shipments arrived via lite rail, and the mill specialized in custom cutting for clients' specific projects. Additionally, trusses were fabricated on-site and transported to various project sites by tractor trailer.
The closure of the lumber mill in 1990 marked the beginning of extensive site cleanup and remediation efforts. The process, spanning from 1990 to 2004, included soil and groundwater remediation, as well as the disposal of stockpile soils. The successful completion of these efforts in 2004 transformed the site into a habitable space for residents.
In its early days, before the development of the neighboring Parkland Farms community, the mill stood as the northernmost point of the town. Despite being within the official city limits and just two miles from Healdsburg's central Plaza, the North Village site did not initially feel as connected to Healdsburg as it does today. Healdsburg's population and industry growth over the years have seamlessly woven this once-outlying site into the fabric of the community.
Truss fabrication warehouse. Courtesy, Sonoma County Library
What’s in a Name?
A nod to its lumberyard heritage, the primary entryway into the North Village, Boxheart Drive, sets the tone for the neighborhood. The adjacent retail promenade, Boxheart Commons, pays homage to the site's lumberyard roots. The name "Boxheart" is derived from the lumber term "boxed heart," signifying the central and stabilizing part of a tree's trunk. If a cut piece of wood includes the heart, it is termed a "boxed heart," symbolizing strength from all four corners of the trunk. This name captures both the historical significance and the stability that the North Village community aims to embody.
Left: Boxed Heart. Right: Dovetail Joint
In a similar vein, the second street, Dovetail Lane, draws inspiration from woodworking. A dovetail joint, characterized by interlocking fan-shaped pieces, securely joins two pieces of wood. The joint resembles a dove's tail. These street names not only honor the site's lumberyard history but also represent the unity, support, and strength within the community.
Stacks of lumber on site with prune orchard in background. Courtesy, Sonoma County Library.
Legacy
The North Village site's journey from a lumber mill to a thriving community space underscores its rich history and the careful efforts taken to honor its roots. As Healdsburg residents ourselves, we recognized the importance of meeting the community's needs in designing the North Village. Our goal was to create a neighborhood that serves both the city and its residents. The North Village integrates high-need housing, retail spaces, and a hotel offering amenities for residents and visitors alike. By paying homage to the site's rich history as a lumber mill while meeting the current and future needs of the community, we aim to establish a legacy of service and community engagement that will endure for many years to come.