Doesn’t the name Jefferson Park conjure images of history and recreation? This expansive park, a true gem in Seattle, offers so much more than meets the eye. Let’s delve into the story of Jefferson Park.
Jefferson Park wasn’t always a park. The State of Washington initially planned it for university use. But in 1892, it became a “pesthouse,” an isolation hospital. Imagine the scene: a place of healing and, sadly, of suffering.
In 1898, Seattle bought the land with plans for a reservoir and a cemetery. However, fate had other ideas. By 1908, the park was named in honor of Thomas Jefferson. The Olmsted Brothers, famed landscape architects, included Jefferson Park in their grand plan for Seattle’s parks.
The Olmsted Brothers designed the 18-hole golf course. It opened in 1915. Picture golfers enjoying the meticulously designed course, a testament to the Olmsted vision. The first municipally owned golf course in Seattle was a hit. In its first year, 26309 people played on Jefferson Park’s 18-hole course.
World War II brought a different chapter to Jefferson Park. Anti-aircraft batteries were installed here. The U.S. Army requisitioned the park. It became a G.I. recreation center. Soldiers found respite here. Visiting families stayed in tent housing.
After the war, Jefferson Park returned to its former glory. The Army structures were removed. A new Veterans’ Administration hospital was built. This claimed part of the original 9-hole golf course. A replacement 9-hole course was then added elsewhere. This is also the home course of golfing great Fred Couples.
From 2008 to 2009, the park’s reservoir was covered. This created new park space. It is supported by 624 columns. Imagine the engineering feat.
Today, Jefferson Park thrives. The Jefferson Park Golf Course is heavily used. The Jefferson Community Center buzzes with activity. The Jefferson Lawn Bowling green is a popular spot. The playfields echo with laughter.
The Jefferson Park expansion officially opened October 28, 2010. Adjacent to the park is the Beacon Food Forest. It is a volunteer-run project that provides food to neighbors.
A unique “skate space” designed by artist CJ Rench opened in June 2014. It is a sculpture designed for skateboarding.
Jefferson Park has a rich history. In 1892, Seattle established an isolation hospital or “pesthouse” at Jefferson Park. In 1909, the city opened the Municipal Workhouse and Stockage, which replaced Seattle’s chain gang, and had city prisoners clear trees for the park.
As golf became more popular in Seattle, a group campaigned for a public golf course. In 1915, Seattle Mayor Hiram C. Gill had the honor of being the first to tee off with a “half-midiron” shot. In its first year, the Jefferson Park Golf Course had 26309 visitors.
During World War I, Army planes on a Liberty Bond tour used the fairways as a makeshift airport. In 1936, the Works Progress Administration built a new clubhouse.
The Army returned the park and golf course to the city in 1946. Soon after, a new nine-hole course was constructed at the site of a lawn bowling green.
Jefferson Park was “open to anybody”. African Americans, Asian Americans, and other minorities were welcome to play on the course.
In 1947, a group founded the Fir State Golf Club. It is the nation’s second-oldest African American golf club with a home golf course. In 1951, a group of 16 Chinese businessmen formed a group called the Seattle Chinese Golf Club. In 1954 they chartered the club at Jefferson Golf Course and renamed it the Cascade Golf Club.
So, as you wander through Jefferson Park today, remember its layered past. From a “pesthouse” to a recreation hub, it has served Seattle in countless ways. It stands as a testament to community, recreation, and the enduring spirit of Seattle.