Ranald MacDonald Burial Site
Ten and a half miles from Curlew, Washington in a small graveyard overlooking the Kettle River, lies the remains of Ranald MacDonald, recognized by many as Japan’s first English teacher. MacDonald was a sailor, a gold miner, a writer, an explorer, and (briefly) a teacher. Relatively unknown to the citizens of his own country, MacDonald is fondly remembered by the Japanese for the role he played in helping them learn more about the English language and Western culture.
Location
Address: 984-1050 Customs RD, Curlew, WA 99118
The park is open daily; year round.
Ranald MacDonald was buried in an Indian Cemetery on the east side of Customs Road, on a knoll overlooking the Kettle River, 10-1/2 miles north of Curlew, Washington. His grave site is the smallest state park in Washington State.
Traveling north on Hwy 21 turn left on Kettle River Road; travel 9-1/2 miles and then turn right at the bridge crossing the Kettle River. From the bridge, turn left on to Customs Road (unmarked). Watch for signs marking the grave site (it’s easy to miss the cemetery entrance). The mural is located approximately one mile from the entrance to the cemetery. For more information about Ranald MacDonald, contact: The Ferry County Historical Society.
