Underground Seattle FIRE Destroys A Million Rats!

Spring is here and the tourists will be flocking soon to Seattle, WA.  Once in a while I get asked what are some things that are fun to do in my city?  I usually give many suggestions, but one I had never given was one I finally toured myself! Please note all photos were taken by my friend Donna.  She shared these photos so we could collaborate on sharing this post.

The Underground Tour makes its home in the streets below our oldest neighborhood in Seattle called Pioneer Square.

 

It is the Underground Tour of the city of Seattle.  In 1889 the Great Fire of Seattle destroyed the city.  That burnt down city  is entombed under what is known as the Pioneer Square District.  In a short synopsis, the fire was started in a cabinet shop when a pot full of glue on a stove caught fire.  The ignorance of the men trying to put the fire out actually caused disaster as water was doused on the glue sparking a catastrophic event that forever changed Seattle and burnt down everything in its destructive path.  Unknowing to the ignorant men, the fire ended up being the best thing to happen to Seattle because the town would be built better than ever the second time around! And yes a million rats lost their lives!

This tour was quite interesting and rugged.  It was a good thing I was wearing good shoes.   The truth is you will encounter  “old west” terrain and must be prepared for many steps that lead to where the first pioneers began constructing the city.  I was very surprised also how comical this tour was.  The staff mean to please and they are sure to make you smile as you see the buried city of Seattle.

Lights are put up for easy see through.

Open room showcasing the unknown first city of Seattle.

Sidewalks built to be able to maneuver the hidden city of Seattle.

Early 1800 era window sills are noted throughout the underground city of Seattle.

You can see an arch that was built in the late 1800’s when Seattle was first built.

You will not be disappointed by taking the tour, but be sure to call ahead and find out the times.   Be sure also to give yourself about two hours to fully enjoy the experience.

Old Seattle was made of mostly wood. The fire of 1889 destroyed most of the city due to this fact.  What is left of this first city is now underground!