Bartells stumps for Ivar Haglund

Photo from IMLS Digital

A grassroots movement to name a new Washington State ferry after the late Ivar Haglund has a new supporter with deep roots in the Puget Sound area: Bartell Drugs.

The Seattle-based drugstore chain, founded in 1890, is getting behind the effort to name one of the state's two new Olympic-class ferries the "M.V. Ivar Haglund" by providing petitions in all of its 58 stores. Through September 23, customers are invited to show their support by signing the petition and entering a drawing to win a grand prize of a $100 Bartells gift card.

Additional winners will win $25 gift cards valid at Ivar's Restaurants or Seafood Bars. No petition

signature is required to enter the drawing. "The 'M.V. Ivar Haglund' plying the waters of Puget Sound would be a fitting tribute to his legacy," said Chairman and CEO George D. Bartell. "Ivar brought the color and pioneering spirit of Puget Sound to our doorsteps through his music, restaurants and colorful personality."

Ivar Haglund (1905-1985) was an early champion of regional folk music, a pioneering radio personality, established Seattle's first aquarium, and was a colorful waterfront restaurateur with establishments throughout Washington State. His grandparents purchased Alki Point from pioneer Doc Maynard, and Haglund's lifelong devotion to Seattle and Puget Sound are part of the region's unique character. 

For more information on the life and times of Ivar Haglund, visit our news partner History Link. For more information on the state's current name selection process for the new ferries, see this.

Founded in 1890, Seattle-based Bartell Drugs owns and operates 58  stores in King, Pierce and Snohomish counties and is the nation's oldest family-owned drugstore chain.