Why Olympia Should Be the Capital
A robust argument for keeping the state capital in Olympia, citing its climate, central location, and superior hotel infrastructure.
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 question as to where the Capital of the new State of Washington will be located is one of the most important that is to be submitted to the voters at the election of October 1st. Olympia, the present Capital, presents her claims. First, she enjoys the best and most healthy climate of all places seeking capital honors. The death rate in Olympia is lower than that of any other American city. Second, Olympia is a central point of the most populous and wealthy section of the new state, and she has better hotel accommodations than all her rivals combined. The new 'Hotel Olympia' is 118x140 feet in size with four stories and an attic, costing $100,000. It is a city of homes, noted for its beautiful streets and hospitable citizens. Vote for Olympia whether you are a republican or democrat and you will best subserve the interests of your state.
“Remember that it is healthier, has a milder climate, better transportation facilities, better hotel accommodations than any of its rivals.”
This piece of political boosterism highlights the fierce regional competition to define the seat of power in Washington State shortly after statehood. It captures the civic ego and infrastructure-driven arguments that shaped our current map.
From readers
No comments yet. If you know something about this story — a correction, a family memory, a source — it belongs here.