Seasonal stories & historical reading
History of Seattle, Washington, USA
Journey back in time to Seattle, Washington, USA
Explore the history, people, photographs, newspapers, postcards, and genealogy connected to Seattle, Washington, USA.
About Seattle
Seattle is home to the first revolving restaurant in the 48 contiguous United States (and the second revolving restaurant in the world). Located atop the Space Needle, at a height of 500 feet above sea level, the restaurant was opened in 1961.
Starbucks, the biggest coffee chain in the world was founded in Seattle.
50states.com
Seattle Nostalgia: Vintage Photos, Ads, and Postcards

"Between 1890 and 1906, Seattle's Denny/Washington Hotel, advertised as "The Scenic Hotel of the West," straddled 3rd Avenue between Stewart and Virginia streets on the south summit of Denny Hill. (Denny Hill was subsequently flattened.) The Denny Hotel was conceived and begun in 1889 by a group of developers including Seattle founding father Arthur Denny (1822-1899). The Panic of 1893 halted the proceedings with interiors incomplete, and the turreted shell hung over Seattle for a decade. James A. Moore (1861-1929) bought it and it flourished as the Washington Hotel for one or two summers before the Denny Hill regrade regraded it out of existence..." www.historylink.org/File/2990
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Hawaii and Oriental Foreign Exhibit Buildings from European Building
Genealogy gifts & optional resources
Genealogy Gifts & Resources Related to SEATTLE

I Love WASHINGTON! Ceramic Mug – Salmon, Coffee & Mac & Cheese
Bring the flavors of the Pacific Northwest to your morning routine! This 11oz or 15oz (your choice) ceramic mug features vibrant artwork of salmon, a steaming cup of coffee, and creamy mac & cheese, celebrating the best of Washington state. Perfect for locals, food lovers, or anyone who cherishes the Evergreen State.

SEATTLE Skyline Majesty - The Mountain is OUT! T-Shirt
Whether you're a proud Seattleite or simply enamored by the beauty of the region, this shirt is a must-have addition to your wardrobe. The phrase "The Mountain is Out!" celebrates those rare, clear days when Mount Rainier graces the skyline in all its splendor, a sight cherished by locals and visitors alike.

WASHINGTON - Washington's Brew Debate - Coffee Mug - I'm from Washington!
Start your day with a cup of Joe that screams Pacific Northwest pride! Our ceramic mug features the caption, "I'm from Washington! That explains a lot about my love for coffee, and my ability to debate the superiority of Seattle's rain over any other city's." Whether you're a lifelong resident or just an admirer of the Evergreen State, this mug perfectly captures the essence of Washingtonian life.

SEATTLE Skyline 20 oz Tumbler - "Hey Seattle! The Mountain is Out!"
Sip in style with our Seattle Skyline 20 oz Tumbler, featuring the caption, "Hey Seattle! The Mountain is Out!" Perfect for keeping your beverages hot or cold, this tumbler celebrates the iconic beauty of Mount Rainier peeking through the city's skyline. Whether you're commuting through the Emerald City or just dreaming of the Pacific Northwest, this tumbler is your go-to companion.

SEATTLE, WA - Hey Seattle! The Mountain Is Out! Coffee Mug
If you know, you know. When Mount Rainier makes a rare, crystal-clear appearance, Seattle notices—and now your coffee mug does too. This “Hey Seattle! The Mountain Is Out!” mug celebrates that magical moment when the clouds finally cooperate and the city collectively loses its mind (in the best way). Perfect for proud locals, former Seattleites feeling nostalgic, or visitors who quickly learned this iconic Pacific Northwest phrase, this mug brings a bit of regional humor to your morning routine. Whether you’re sipping coffee, tea, or something strong enough to survive the gray season, it’s a cheerful reminder that sometimes the mountain really is out—and it’s always worth celebrating.
Discover Seattle: History, News, Travel, and Stories
Explore the events, newspaper stories, people, and moments that shaped Seattle through the years.
Despite facing numerous challenges, including harsh weather conditions and limited resources, the Denny Party persevered and established the first permanent settlement in the area. They built crude shelters and began clearing land for agriculture, laying the foundation for the future development of Seattle. The arrival of additional settlers and the establishment of trading posts further fueled the growth of the nascent community, attracting entrepreneurs, craftsmen, and families seeking a better life in the frontier.
The landing of ...
The University's founding came at a time when the Pacific Northwest was experiencing rapid...
In 1886, on February 9th, President Grover Cleveland's declaration of a state of emergency in Seattle underscored the gravity of the situation amid mounting anti-Chinese violence. This period marked a troubling chapter in American history, characterized by widespread xenophobia and racial discrimination against Chinese immigrants who had come to the United States seeking economic opportunities during the Gold Rush and later to build the transcontinental railroad.
The declaration of the state of emergency highlighted the failure of local authorities to address the escalating violence and protect the rights and safety of the Chinese community. Incidents of vandalism, arson, and physical assaults targeting Chinese businesses and individuals had reached alarming levels, prompting federal intervention. Cleveland's action sought to restore order and safeguard the lives and property of all residents, while also drawing attention to the urgent need for broader societal reforms...
The car obtained great momentum and in making the turn into Pine Street the passengers on the left side were thrown off.
Among them were MR. and MRS. WM. WAGNER of Chadwin, Neb. with two children. MRS. SOPHONIA WAGNER had her 2-year-old child PENNY in her lap, and when thrown off struck on her head and neck. She was picked up and carried to the Griffith house, but expired before reaching the house. Her oldest child ALMO, aged 5, received severe scalp wounds. The other child and the husband escaped uninjured.
Others injured are:
ED S. GILL, agent of the Grismer Davies Company, left ankle sprained.
DR. A. E. GRAY, face and head cut.
The WAGNERS had just arrived in the city this morning to locate. The husband is prostrated by the...
The people have joined with the militia in protecting property from a gang of thieves. Relief committees are supplying coffee and food to the homeless at the Armory, and are furnishing beds as much as possible.
There are no serious casualties that are definitely known, but it is reported that several men were burned to death.
It is impossible to estimate the loss by the fire, but it will reach into the millions. The fire swept away five blocks, the most of which was the best part of the city, and covers all the banks, the best hotels and new brick buildings.
Among those houses which have been totally destroyed are:
LYMAN WOOD'S furniture store.
The Queen City bakery and candy store.
McLAUGHLIN'S...
Upon its completion in January 1893, the Great Northern Railroad opened up the Pacific Northwest to rapid development and integration...
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SEATTLE, Washington, Oct. 27. - A fire which resulted in the death of at least sixteen persons and the injury of three more started in the West Street House, at Columbia and West Streets, at about 1 A. M. At 3 A. M. the fire was under control, and an investigation of the ruins was made.
Nearly all the dead were so badly burned as to be unrecognizable.
The Indentified Dead.
By shreds of clothing the following have been identified as among the dead:
ANDERSON, C. WILSON.
BOLTMAN, F. W.
HUFFMAN, Mrs. J. W., and two daughters.
McDONALD, ANGUS.
OTTESEN, ANDREW.
OTTESEN, Mrs. ANDREW.
SORBY, M. C.
WILSON, C.
The Injured.
The injured are as follows:
ANDERSON, C. B., hand burned, body badly bruised.
GLASS, D. B., leg broken and back injured.
HAVLIN, Edward,...
Seattle quickly emerged as the primary jump-off point for these hopeful adventurers, thanks to its strategic location and established transportation links. The city's businesses thrived by catering to the needs of the gold-seekers, selling supplies, equipment,...
February 11 - The Seattle General Strike ends when Federal troops are summoned by the State of Washington's Attorney General.
Seattle, Nov, 13. – (AP) – Mr. and Mrs. J. L. MANIRE, publishers of the Aurora Herald, suburban weekly, were killed today when their light sedan virtually was demolished in a collision with a sawdust truck.
Jack WILLIAMS, the truck driver, said the accident occurred during a driving rain, and could not be avoided. Neither he nor his companion, Ed LABADI, were hurt.
In another accident, Charles QUIETT, 65, apparently the victim of a hit-run driver, died at noon nine hours after he was found lying on a street near the south end of the Fremont bridge. He did not regain consciousness.
Former Oakville Publisher
The collision occurred on Aurera avenue, north of the city limits, when the coupe was entering the arterial highway, investigating officers said.
The MANIRES, who resided at Richmond Heights, moved there a year ago from Oakville, Grays Harbor county, where they also had published a weekly...
The winners are: Rochester, New York: 167 days with rain; Buffalo, New York: 167 days; Portland, Oregon: 164 days; Cleveland, Ohio: 155 days; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania: 151 days
If you look at precipitation (including snow), Seattle is nowhere near the top.
The winners are: New Orleans, Louisiana 62.7 inches; Miami, Florida, 61.9; Birmingham, Alabama, 53.7; Memphis, Tennessee, 53.7; Jacksonville, Florida, 52.4; Orlando, Florida, 50.7; New York, New York, 49.9; Houston, Texas, 49.8; Atlanta, Georgia, 49.7; Boston, Massachusetts, 47.4; Nashville, Tennessee, 47.3; Providence, Rhode Island, 47.2; Virginia Beach, Virginia, 46.5; Tampa, Florida, 46.3; Raleigh, North Carolina, 46.0; Hartford, Connecticut, 45.9; followed by many other places until you reach Seattle at 39.34 inches.
2. Pike Place Market: This historic market is a must-visit. It's known for its fresh seafood, local produce, unique shops, and the famous fish-throwing vendors. Don't forget to take a picture with the bronze piggy bank, Rachel, for good luck.
3. Seattle Waterfront: Stroll along the picturesque waterfront and enjoy views of Elliott Bay, ferries, and the Olympic Mountains. You can also visit attractions like the Seattle Aquarium and the Great Wheel.
4. Chihuly Garden and Glass: This stunning exhibit showcases the breathtaking glass art of Dale Chihuly. You'll be mesmerized by the vibrant and intricate glass sculptures in both indoor and outdoor settings.
5. Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP): If you're a...
Discover YOUR Roots: Seattle Ancestry
Explore ancestors connected to Seattle through births, deaths, marriages, cemeteries, and local genealogy resources.
Ancestors Who Were Born or Died in Seattle, Washington, USA
We currently have information about 105 ancestors who were born or died in Seattle.
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