Names like Denny, Yesler, Bell, Maynard and more started a settlement on the east edge of Elliott Bay in the mid-1800’s. They hacked out a living from the forested slopes, created structures on the Duwamish tide flats, traded with locals and built a town that they named after a trusted friend. Fires might have slowed their progress but their vision could not be denied leaving us with a tribute to the American spirit.

Pioneer Square was once the heart of downtown and after the destruction of 1889 dozens of elegant buildings with rich Romanesque architectural details were raised using brick and stone. Ranging from Columbia south to Royal Brougham Way and east to 4th Avenue, a portion of the area is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.  Many of those buildings have been renovated into lovely condominiums for you to enjoy in this cultural & dynamic environment.

The plaza at 1st & Yesler holds the heart and soul of our city. This is your chance to be a part of that history.