The Struggle for a Sidewalk
Citizens and the City Council wrangle over basic infrastructure as Seattle grapples with rapid growth and urban order.
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.
Council met pursuant to law. Present: His Honor the Mayor and Councilmen L. Ide, Hill, Forth, Galligan, Harroun, McDonald and Young. Communications received: From M. D. Pose for a sidewalk on the north side of Spring street, between Third and Fourth. Referred. From Hezekiah Street, for damages caused by James street grade. Referred. From Richard Pritchard, praying that a liquor license be issued to him in accordance with bond heretofore filed. Ordered laid on the table. From S. B. Carr, et al., remonstrating against issuing license to H. Pritchard to sell liquor at Lake View Hotel, east end of Jackson street. Laid on the table. From Chas. Baker, et al., for a policeman in North Seattle. Referred. From G. A. Yates, for settlement of grade suit. Referred. From John Shepich, for transfer of license. Granted.
“From S. B. Carr, et al., remonstrating against issuing license to H. Pritchard to sell liquor at Lake View Hotel, east end of Jackson street.”
The 1885 City Council meeting reflects a familiar Seattle rhythm: residents fighting for sidewalks and infrastructure while arguing over the proliferation of liquor licenses and the policing of rapidly expanding neighborhoods. Much like today, the frustration over how the city manages growth and settles grade/infrastructure disputes remains a defining feature of the Seattle civic experience.
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