The Real Estate Rush to Lake Union
A 1891 developer's pitch for the 'fine' residential property of Lake Union, promising transit access and views of the burgeoning city.
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.
Frank T. Hunter, Washington Block, Foot of Cherry Street, has placed Miller's Lake Union Mill on the market. This addition comprises the finest residence property now offered in the city. It commands a magnificent view of Lakes Union and Washington, Mount Rainier, Mount Baker, and the Cascade Range, also the city and the suburbs Fremont and Latona. It is but a 15 minute ride by street car, which is now running past this property, to the city post office. This close proximity to the business center of the city places it above other suburban subdivisions, insuring gas, water and a desirable neighborhood. My lots are all cleared ready for building and can be had on terms to suit any purchaser. I have no gift lots or free band concerts, but offer the property on its merits and invite inspection. I will sell you a lot 50x135 25 per cent cheaper than you can get lots 25x110 one mile further from the business center of the city without direct means of transportation.
“I have no gift lots or free band concerts, but offer the property on its merits and invite inspection.”
In 1891, developers were aggressively carving up the hillsides around Lake Union, framing them as the 'finest' residential districts with transit access. Today, the struggle over density, views, and transit-oriented development in those same neighborhoods remains the primary engine of Seattle's housing debate.
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