Exploring the Seattle Underground: History and Tours
Seattle is a city full of hidden gems, but none are as fascinating and mysterious as the Seattle Underground. Beneath the bustling streets of modern Seattle lies a forgotten world of old streets, storefronts, and passageways. This blog post will delve into the captivating history of the Seattle Underground, its transformation, and how you can explore this hidden treasure through various tours.
The Intriguing History of the Seattle Underground
The history of the Seattle Underground dates back to the late 19th century, a period marked by rapid urban development and a series of unfortunate events. Let’s explore the key historical milestones that shaped this underground labyrinth.
The Great Seattle Fire of 1889
On June 6, 1889, a devastating fire broke out in a woodworking shop in downtown Seattle. The Great Seattle Fire, as it came to be known, rapidly spread through the city, fueled by wooden buildings and wooden sidewalks. In total, the fire destroyed 25 city blocks, leaving thousands homeless and businesses in ruins.
While the fire was a tragedy, it also presented an opportunity for the city to rebuild and modernize its infrastructure. This marked the beginning of the Seattle Underground.
Rebuilding and Raising the Streets
In the aftermath of the fire, the city planners decided to rebuild Seattle using more fire-resistant materials like brick and stone. Additionally, they took the opportunity to address the city’s ongoing flooding issues caused by the tides of Elliott Bay.
The solution was to raise the streets by one to two stories, creating new elevated sidewalks. However, this left the former street level, with its storefronts and passageways, buried underground.
The Birth of the Seattle Underground
As the new streets and buildings were constructed at a higher level, the original ground-level storefronts became basements. These underground spaces were gradually abandoned and fell into disrepair. For many years, the Seattle Underground remained a forgotten chapter in the city’s history.
Exploring the Seattle Underground Tours
Today, the Seattle Underground is a popular tourist attraction, offering a glimpse into the city’s past. Several tour companies provide guided tours of these subterranean passageways, each offering a unique perspective on Seattle’s history. Here are some of the top tours you can take to explore the Seattle Underground.
Bill Speidel’s Underground Tour
Bill Speidel’s Underground Tour is perhaps the most famous and well-established tour of the Seattle Underground. Founded in 1965 by local historian Bill Speidel, this tour offers a humorous and informative journey through the underground passageways.
Highlights of the Tour:
- A 75-minute guided walking tour through three blocks of subterranean storefronts and sidewalks.
- Engaging tales of Seattle’s history, including the Great Fire and the city’s quirky characters.
- Opportunities to see remnants of original buildings and artifacts from the late 19th century.
Beneath the Streets Tour
The Beneath the Streets Tour offers a more intimate and in-depth exploration of the Seattle Underground. This tour is known for its smaller group sizes and focus on historical accuracy.
Highlights of the Tour:
- A 60-minute guided tour through the underground passageways of Pioneer Square.
- Detailed stories about the city’s early pioneers, the Great Fire, and the reconstruction efforts.
- Access to areas not typically included in other tours, providing a unique perspective on the underground.
Spooked in Seattle Ghost Tours
For those interested in the paranormal, the Spooked in Seattle Ghost Tours offer a spine-tingling journey through the haunted history of the Seattle Underground. These tours combine historical facts with ghost stories and paranormal investigations.
Highlights of the Tour:
- A 90-minute guided tour focusing on the haunted history of Pioneer Square and the underground.
- Accounts of ghost sightings, eerie experiences, and paranormal investigations conducted in the area.
- A chance to use ghost-hunting equipment and participate in a mini-investigation.
Tips for Exploring the Seattle Underground
Before you embark on your underground adventure, here are some practical tips to make the most of your experience:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The underground passageways can be uneven and dimly lit, so it’s essential to wear comfortable shoes with good grip. Avoid wearing high heels or open-toed sandals.
Check Tour Availability and Book in Advance
Tours of the Seattle Underground can fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist seasons. It’s a good idea to check tour availability and book your tickets in advance to secure your spot.
Bring a Light Jacket
The underground passageways can be cooler than the surface, so bringing a light jacket or sweater is advisable, even during the warmer months.
Arrive Early
Arriving early for your tour ensures that you have enough time to check in, use the restroom, and get acquainted with the meeting point. Most tours start promptly, and latecomers may not be allowed to join.
Conclusion
Exploring the Seattle Underground is a captivating way to delve into the city’s rich history and uncover the hidden stories beneath its streets. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a ghost hunter, or simply curious, the underground tours offer a unique and memorable experience. From the Great Seattle Fire to the rebuilding efforts, the underground passageways hold the secrets of a bygone era waiting to be discovered.
So, the next time you find yourself in Seattle, don’t miss the chance to explore the Seattle Underground. With a variety of tours to choose from, you’re sure to find one that suits your interests and provides a fascinating glimpse into the city’s past.
