Jumping For Joy. Agog for Frogs. The Real Story Behind the Creation Bainbridge Island’s Iconic Frog Rock. Come Celebrate in early May

By Denise Stoughton

Hidden deep within a charming, wood enclave at the north end of Bainbridge Island, the fantastical Frog Hollow Post Office is a sight that few have had the privilege to behold. Perched atop a twelve- foot post, this imaginative creation by Jody Loving is like a mailbox Christmas tree with each salvaged mailbox housing a unique frog figurine. It feels like stumbling upon a secret world where the ordinary becomes extraordinary.

As Julie led me through her magical gardens, I couldn’t help but feel like a muggle intruding on a world of wizardry. Her yard is a haven of creativity, and it is also home to a terrestrial boat adorned with a whimsical salmon scene, where metal bugs and birds gather around a café table in a delightfully eerie feast.

The Frog Hollow Post Office itself is located in a spot where real frogs love to gather, adding to its enchanting aura. Julie began collecting mailboxes when local high schoolers were smashing them for fun; she started rescuing these damaged boxes and later acquired more from the local Rotary Auction and Goodwill. While you won’t spot this hidden gem from the road, if you have a bit of Flower power—or perhaps just a keen sense of wonder—you might just find your way to this magical corner of Bainbridge Island.

Frog Rock is more than just a quirky landmark—it’s an enduring symbol of Bainbridge Island’s creativity, community, and enduring love. Perched at the intersection of N. Madison Avenue NE, Phelps Road NE, and Spargur Loop Road NE, this beloved amphibian has been delighting islanders since June 7, 1971.

That rainy night, fresh off their high school graduation, Ellen Barnes and Bob Green, two Bainbridge High School students, decided to reclaim a local rock formation that had been subjected to graffiti, including a recent lavender-and-purple paint job courtesy of rival North Kitsap High students. Armed with a gallon of miss-mixed green paint and some leftover pints of red, black, and white paint, the young couple transformed what was once known as Split Rock into the now-iconic Frog Rock.

The rocks themselves are glacial erratic’s—large boulders left behind by retreating glaciers—that were blasted apart in the 1940s to make way for a dairy barn. In the 1950s, a workman stacked the two halves, inadvertently creating the perfect canvas for Ellen and Bob’s spontaneous masterpiece.

The following year, Ellen and Bob returned with friends to stand guard against any NK retribution and, in a moment of inspiration, painted a smaller nearby rock as a ladybug—giving Frog Rock a charming companion. Over the decades, Frog Rock has been lovingly maintained, with touch- ups from the Greens and fellow islanders alike. The rock has even donned a mustache, a Halloween costume, and a mask in solidarity with public health efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic.

For over 50 years, Frog Rock has stood as a playful reminder of the island’s whimsical spirit, a beloved icon that continues to capture the hearts of those who pass by. (And by the way, Robert and Ellen have also endured as a couple for over 50 years!) Whether you’re a long-time resident or a first- time visitor, Frog Rock is a testament to the enduring charm and creativity that makes Bainbridge Island—fondly known as “The Rock”—a truly special place.

Celebration of Frog Rock Week
The Island is set to celebrate this iconic and quirky landmark with a series of events during the first week of May.

On May 2nd, the First Friday Art Walk will feature the debut of the Frog Rock merchandise collection at Millstream, a store located in Downtown Winslow. Bob and Ellen Green, now in their early 70s, will be in attendance to share their story and celebrate their creation. Attendees can enjoy Frog Rock and Ladybug cookies from Blackbird Bakery, along with a special Green Cocktail.

Eight limited edition Bay Hay and Feed hoodies, customized with Bob’s original Frog Rock illustration, will be raffled off. Proceeds from the raffle will benefit Bob and Ellen, who are still actively working in their retirement.

Frog Rock Repainting
On Saturday May 3rd, Bob and Ellen will repaint Frog Rock to its original design, restoring the beloved curlicue lips. The community is invited to join this event and witness the landmark’s rejuvenation.

Proclamation and Anniversary

In a heartwarming gesture, the City of Bainbridge Island has proclaimed the first week of May as Frog Rock Week. The proclamation was read by Mayor Ashley Matthews at the city council meeting on April 8th, coinciding with Bob and Ellen’s 47th wedding anniversary.

Community Connection
The celebration is organized by community energizer Denise Stoughton, who interviewed Bob and Ellen for her book, “Meet Me at the Mailbox.” Inspired by their story and their iconic creation, Denise has facilitated the connection with Millstream for the Frog Rock merchandise collaboration.

Stoughton invites the community to join us for both events and celebrate the legacy of Frog Rock. For more information, please visit millstream.com.
Contact: Denise Stoughton, Phone: (917)647-4077, Email: denisestoughton17@gmail.com

About Millstream
Millstream is a store located in downtown Winslow, Bainbridge Island, offering a unique collection of local art, crafts, and merchandise. The store is proud to collaborate with Bob and Ellen Green for the Frog Rock collection debut during Frog Rock Week.

Denise Stoughton is a community energizer and author of “Meet Me at the Mailbox,” a book celebrating creative projects on Bainbridge Island. Denise is dedicated to connecting local artists and fostering community engagement through her work.

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