Site Report #2: Environmental History
As I continued my research of block 45, I stumbled amongst one of the only pre-1900 topographic maps available. The map (seen on the left) offers details in high definition of different blocks, bodies of water, and highly recognized areas of land such as Woodland Park and the University. The map also provides insight into the proximity of the blocks and streets at the time as well as the uninhabited areas. Upon further research, I found that the land my block sat on was sold to Thomas Emerson on January 20th, 1882. Emerson bought 80 acres of land that had no access to railroads or roads during the time, making the reasons for his purchase unknown. Former Mayor of Seattle George F. Cotterill described the area at the time during an interview in August 31, 1928 as “undisturbed by dwellers”, proving that the block consisted of nothing but land during the time of Emerson’s purchase.
As time went on, Emerson’s land continued to develop and no longer consisted of woods and random paths. It evolved from roads paved with wooden planks to resurfaced streets from Roosevelt Way to 11th, facilitating the use of motor coaches and trackless trolleys at the time. Improvements continued and a drive-up facility operated as a part of the University Branch of National Bank of Commerce (later renamed Rainier National Bank) was opened in the corner of the block at N.E 45th St. and Roosevelt Way. It was evident that the streets no longer consisted of unpaved, uncivilized cow paths; rather the area became an ideal location for incoming incorporations and businesses. Block 45 continues its business appeal and now hosts Bridges @ 11th, a large building owned by the University that offers housing and available retail space. The block was used for graduate family housing prior to Bridges at 11th, making it evident that the University of Washington has continued to rebuild business in this area (Rainier Bank, Graduate Housing, Bridges at 11th etc.) As I continued my research, I realized Bridges @ 11th was fairly modern because 11th street was previously named Boylston Ave. As I visited my block a second time, I noticed that there continues to be improvements and construction (see image) whose future project will now be located on 45th in between Roosevelt and 11th.
Two distinct things stood out while analyzing the present environment of my site. I saw a sewer, signifying the development of the area. Once inhabited, the block was able to develop and build a sewage system allowing the drainage of water and waste matter. This includes built in underground pipes used to transport the sewage, which is vital for any urban area. I also visited the alley between Roosevelt and 11th for the first time and noticed distinct cracks on the pavement. This signifies that the paved roads were once in fact untouched and consisted mainly of dirt. For my block specifically, wooden planks used to lined the roads, often times causing accidents between horse wagons that tended to get caught in between the planks. Throughout time, the streets were remodeled and paved with cement, however there seems to be improvements on 11th and Roosevelt but the alley in between seems to be untamed and has now cracked in various areas.