Drawn between Queen Anne Hill and Magnolia, Interbay’s story is etched in glaciers. Imagine the Vashon Stade carving this valley thousands of years ago. We are standing in Interbay.
Interbay’s history is more than just geographical. It’s a story of Native American presence, pioneering settlers, and industrial transformation. The Duwamish people knew this land long before settlers arrived. Though no permanent villages were recorded, they certainly utilized the resources of Smith Cove and Salmon Bay.
In 1852, the Denny Party recognized Interbay’s potential. However, they chose to settle further south. Dr. Henry A. Smith saw the same opportunity and claimed land here. He and his family farmed and envisioned a future city. Smith’s Cove bears his name today.
Smith even wrote what he claimed was a translation of Chief Seattle’s speech. Its authenticity remains debated. Nevertheless, Smith’s impact on Interbay is undeniable.
The arrival of the Seattle, Lake Shore and Eastern Railway in 1884 changed Interbay forever. The railway spurred commercial development. The area became a blue-collar village. In 1894, the name Boulevard officially became Interbay.
James J. Hill and the Great Northern Railway further transformed Interbay. They established a major depot and port at Smith Cove. In 1896, Nippon Yusen Kaisha established the first regular steamship service between Asia and North America. Smith Cove became its American port.
The construction of the Lake Washington Ship Canal between 1911 and 1916 reshaped Interbay again. Material from the dredging filled Smith Cove tidelands. The Port of Seattle built Fishermen’s Terminal on Salmon Bay. They also developed Piers 90 and 91 at Smith Cove.
Maritime trade fueled the rise of various companies. Portland Cordage, Rudd Paint Manufacturing, and Berquist’s Vinegar Works thrived. Finns, Poles, Russians, Germans, Austrians, and Scots settled and worked in Interbay.
During the Great Depression, Interbay was home to one of Seattle’s Hoovervilles. These shantytowns housed those displaced by the economic crisis. From 1941 to the early 1970s, Smith Cove served as a supply depot for the United States Navy.
Interbay has strived to improve over the years. A proposed monorail failed. Today, the D Line runs along 15th Avenue W. A transit center serves the Expedia office complex.
Interbay has several bridges, including the Magnolia Bridge. The West Dravus trestle also spans the area. These crossings connect Interbay to surrounding neighborhoods.
Today, Interbay is still home to BNSF Railway’s Balmer Yard. Fishermen’s Terminal and Piers 86, 90, and 91 remain vital. You will also find the Interbay Stadium, the Interbay P-Patch, and the Interbay Golf Course here.
Five late 19th-century houses near Smith Cove are city landmarks. A mix of businesses and residences line 15th Avenue West. The spirit of Interbay continues to evolve. It balances industrial heritage with modern development.