Some stories are too beautiful not to share—and this one lives right here in Longmont. Tucked away in Kanemoto Park is one of Longmont’s most meaningful landmarks: the Tower of Compassion. More than just a peaceful place to sit and reflect, this five-story Japanese-style structure tells the powerful story of the Kanemoto family, a family whose gratitude and generosity helped shape Longmont into the community we love today.

This story begins over a century ago. In 1908, Goroku Kanemoto journeyed from Hiroshima, Japan to start a new life in Colorado. He and his wife Setsuno raised their family in Longmont, farming sugar beets and vegetables while working hard to build their future. After Goroku’s tragic death in 1935, his sons Jimmie and George stepped up to run the farm, growing it into a thriving family business.

But the Kanemotos didn’t stop at farming—they became builders and community leaders. They:

✅ Built Southmoor Park, one of Longmont’s largest neighborhoods

✅ Opened Kane Manufacturing & Supply Company

✅ Operated the beloved Freshway Market produce stand

✅ Donated land for schools, churches, fire stations, parks, and the St. Vrain Greenway

Their legacy of giving back culminated in 1972 when they commissioned the Tower of Compassion as a gift to Longmont—a thank-you to the community for standing by their family during WWII when many Japanese Americans were forced into internment camps. Each level of the tower represents a value of compassion:

❤️ Love

💛 Empathy

💚 Understanding

💙 Gratitude

🕊️ Selfless Giving

It’s a monument to resilience, unity, and kindness—right in our backyard.

Why Visit Kanemoto Park?

🌿 Peaceful walking paths

🎏 Beautiful Japanese architecture

💦 Towering shade trees and playgrounds

🧘 Perfect spot for quiet reflection

📸 Definitely selfie-worthy

If you’ve never been—this is your sign. Whether you’re new to Longmont or have lived here for years, the Tower of Compassion is a reminder that kindness builds communities. 🌟

➡️ Weekend idea: Pack a picnic, bring a friend, and spend a little time at Kanemoto Park (south Longmont off S. Pratt Pkwy). Let this piece of Longmont history inspire you.

Stay curious, Longmont. There’s always more to discover close to home. ❤️

Monday, October 20

Tuesday, October 21