The Boom-Time Promises of Seattle’s 'Most Popular Addition'
In the spring of 1891, real estate developers peddled the dream of cheap housing and rapid growth along the new James Street car line, a precursor to the century of development that followed.
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.
Most Popular Addition in Seattle. 50 houses built in last year. Only a few lots left at present prices. Every lot in the addition is within two blocks of the James Street car line now being built. Parties desiring homes will find this property the best buy in Seattle. Choice lots! Low prices! Eitel & Brewer, office with F.M. Neagle, 606 Second St.
“Parties desiring homes will find this property the best buy in Seattle.”
This 1891 advertisement reflects a familiar Seattle rhythm: the aggressive marketing of residential 'additions' linked to transit expansion. Today, the city continues to grapple with the legacy of this land-use pattern, where access to transit lines remains the primary driver of property value and housing availability.
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