The Seattle Hides: An Early Civic Mystery
A brief, mysterious mention in the 1885 local notes reveals the existence of an organization known as the 'Seattle Hides,' a group that appeared in the local news alongside fire companies and land deals.
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 Seattle Hides were out for a practice drill last night. A regular meeting of Engine Co. No. 1 was held last evening. Meeting called to order by the president. Minutes of previous meeting read and approved. Ordered that all exempt members be placed on the active list. Ordered that Isaac Collins, Jr. and W. T. Sharpe be transferred to Hose Co. No. 1. A communication from No. 2 was read. The message was ordered to return the sign to the secretary of No. 2. Communication from Board of Delegates read and placed on file. Moved that election for Chief be deferred until a special meeting to be held on April 28th.
“The Seattle Hides were out for a practice drill last night.”
While this note likely refers to a volunteer firefighting brigade or perhaps a social organization with a colorful nickname, it sits in stark contrast to Seattle's modern, highly professionalized civic infrastructure. The mention captures a moment when the city's public safety was handled by local social clubs and loosely organized volunteer companies.
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