The Siege of Seattle: A City Born in Fire

The Indian war of 1856 was a turning point for Seattle. The farms of the back country were destroyed, and a general massacre of the inhabitants was attempted. Refugees from the scene of fire and bloodshed fled to Seattle, forcing the town into a state of defense. A blockhouse was built on a knoll where the Safe Deposit Building now stands, with portholes cut for the fighting men and safety provided for women and children within the walls. On the morning of January 26th, after friendly Indians reported an impending attack by the Klickitats, the USS Decatur prepared for action. Before daybreak, the attackers had hidden themselves around the town. At a quarter before eight, the firing began. The Indians, hidden behind stumps, logs, and trees, kept up an incessant fire all the forenoon. The Decatur responded with a constant discharge of shells into the enemy ranks. By noon, a lull in the fighting allowed the women and children to be taken aboard the Decatur and the bark Brutus. Though the blockade by the Decatur prevented the total destruction of the town, the conflict kept the region in a state of alarm for years, and many pioneers moved away to California. It is safe to say this war set the Puget Sound region back fifteen years; however, the subsequent growth of Seattle—against what were then regarded as insurmountable obstacles—is due wholly to the relentless enterprise and determination of her people.