The Governor’s Brick Fortress: W.C. Squire Plans to Reshape Seattle’s Corner
As the territory transitions to statehood, Governor Squire announces plans for a massive new brick block on South Second and Main, signaling his permanent shift from territorial politics to local real estate development.
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Governor W. C. Squire has announced his intention to construct a large brick block on his property at the corner of South Second and Main streets in Seattle. In an interview with a reporter last night, the Governor detailed plans for a structure measuring 131 by 130 feet, which will front on both thoroughfares.
"I contemplate making a number of improvements this year," Squire stated. "The first thing of any note will be the construction of a large brick block on my property... Material is a little high at present, but I am having plans made, and expect to be able to get brick at a reasonable figure."
Squire noted that he has not yet determined whether the building will have two or three stories above the basement. His primary hesitation regarding a third story was safety concerns due to the large number of wooden buildings adjoining the site.
"There would be less danger of losing a two-story building than one of three stories," he explained. "Besides, I have considerable other property that I wish to improve, and do not feel like putting too much money in one place."
When asked if he intended to remain in Seattle permanently, Squire affirmed his commitment to the city despite his upcoming trip to Chicago for the Republican National Convention. "Oh, yes; I shall stay in Seattle hereafter," he said, adding that travel rates had become so low that a man could go for the price of a good suit of clothes. He expressed pleasure at seeing business prosper on the "Mound" and stated his principal interests were now firmly rooted in the Territory.
Meanwhile, Captain Gilmore also confirmed active development plans for a Front Street block, ordering bricks immediately after closing the property bargain with Mr. Denny. "We are more anxious than anybody else to get it up," Gilmore said, promising to set the building back ten feet to conform with the widening plan adopted by Mr. Yerger.
This story captures a pivotal moment in Seattle’s history: the transition from a territorial boomtown to a permanent city-state. Governor Squire’s decision to invest heavily in brick infrastructure rather than returning to Washington D.C. or Chicago signaled that Seattle was no longer just a temporary outpost but a serious economic hub. His focus on fire-resistant brick construction also foreshadows the city's ongoing battle with urban density and safety, a theme that remains relevant as Seattle continues to grapple with high-density housing and building codes today.
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