Sunday Refreshments at the Yesler Pleasure Garden
A look at the popular 1870s recreational spot where Seattle residents found relief, music, and ice cream on their days off.
The story, cleaned up
A cleaned-up reading of the newspaper page: spelling and layout repaired, one story lifted off a crowded page. It follows the original closely but it is not a transcription. The original page is below; read it if a detail matters.
The Yesler Pleasure Garden notice says the grounds will be open on Sundays beginning at 10 and on weekdays at any time on application. It advertises flowers, fruits, ice cream, soda water, fancy drinks and confectionery as always on hand. An admission line is included, and the notice is signed W. P. H.
“Flowers, Fruits, Ice Cream, Soda Water, Fancy Drinks... Always on Hand!”
In 1874, the Yesler Pleasure Garden served as a vital social escape for Seattle residents in an era before modern parks were fully developed. Today, the location sits at the heart of the bustling downtown/Pioneer Square district, reflecting how Seattle’s social geography has transformed from isolated 'pleasure gardens' to a densely packed urban core.
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