For many people, San Damiano has a magnetic quality. For volunteer Pat Howell, it began years ago with simple walks and bike rides along the curved driveway with being drawn in by the property’s mystery, beauty, and rare stretch of natural lakeshore on Lake Monona. As surrounding development increased and access to the lake became more limited, San Damiano felt increasingly special.
That connection deepened when Pat learned the Frank AllisHouse might be torn down or the property sold. Pat hoped instead that the land would remain undeveloped and accessible as a place where the community could enjoy nature, wildlife, lake access, and sweeping views.
After many years serving on the Monona Park and Recreation Board, Pat had seen firsthand how deeply people value lakeshore parks. In 2020, following the City of Monona’s feasibility study and decision to move forward with purchasing San Damiano, Pat was invited to get involved. Since then, Pathas served as Friends of San Damiano’s Board Secretary and is Chair of the Community Engagement Committee.
Asked about favorite experiences, Pat doesn’t hesitate to name the people. Volunteers of all ages generously share their time and talents, whether through seasonal grounds cleanups, handyman projects, event planning, photography, graphic design, or social media work. It’s equally rewarding to see visitors simply enjoying the space: watching sunsets, walking, reading, picnicking, or resting. Pat also loves seeing San Damiano used as a learning destination, with frequent visits from MGHS, MG21, and Winnequah Elementary classes.
Another highlight is learning the property’s deep and fascinating history. The land dates back thousands of years to the Ice Age and includes centuries of Indigenous presence, evolving private ownership, archaeological significance, and rich ecological diversity. The more Pat learns, the more awe-inspiring it feels that this relatively undisturbed lakeshore is now open to everyone.
Having grown up in South Dakota and lived for many years in Montana, Pat says being surrounded by nature is “in the blood.” Access to a place like San Damiano, Pat believes, is essential to overall well-being and stewardship of it helps nurture the spirit.
Outside of volunteering, Pat enjoys spending time with family and friends, especially nearby grandchildren, along with traveling, biking, playing cribbage, reading, and being outdoors whenever possible.
Looking ahead, Pat is encouraged. With much of the master planning research complete, strong collaboration with the City of Monona, and dedicated leadership now in place, San Damiano is well positioned to be sustained and enhanced for generations to come.
