Dream of an island escape. That dream is Mercer Island. It sits nestled in Lake Washington. This island boasts a unique history and vibrant community.
Mercer Island’s story begins long before the arrival of settlers. Legend says the Duwamish Indians believed an evil spirit haunted the island. They mostly avoided it. They only gathered berries during the day. Another story tells of the island sinking each night. Then it would rise again each morning.
In 1860, Mercer Island was named after Judge Thomas Mercer. He was one of three Mercer brothers. They were early settlers in the Seattle area. Charles and Agnes Olds settled on the island in 1885. They were considered the island’s “first family”. Soon after, other homesteaders began settling here.
At the turn of the century, C.C. Calkins built a grand hotel. It was named the Calkins Hotel. It stood on the west side of Mercer Island. But Calkins’ luck changed. He had to sell the hotel. A fire destroyed it in 1908. Calkins’ dreams of a fashionable resort went up in smoke.
For many years, steamers carried people and goods across Lake Washington. The population of Mercer Island grew gradually. A bridge connected Mercer Island and Seattle in 1940. It was the world’s largest concrete floating bridge at the time. This caused the population to boom. Before the bridge, the population was about 1,200. A decade later, it was 4,500. By 1960, when Mercer Island became a city, it was 12,000.
The 1980s brought a new floating bridge. It also brought two tunnels. Interstate 90 was trenched across the north end of Mercer Island. This was an expensive and environmentally creative project. Mercer Island gained the 22-acre Park on the Lid. It features playfields, tennis courts, and parkland. These are all located over the lanes of the interstate.
Mercer Island continues to look forward. Sound Transit Light Rail will soon cross the island. It will stop at the Mercer Island Station. This will offer residents and visitors a convenient way to get around. It will also be environmentally friendly.
Mercer Island is known for its beautiful parks. Luther Burbank Park spans 77 acres. It features a long stretch of Lake Washington waterfront. There is also an off-leash dog area and a boat dock. You can find tennis courts and walking trails as well.
Aubrey Davis Park sits atop the I-90 tunnel entrances. It is also known as “The Lid”. This park has softball fields and tennis courts. Basketball courts and picnic shelters are available too.
Today, Mercer Island is a vibrant city. It has a population of over 25,000 people. It is known for its high quality of life. Mercer Island boasts excellent schools and beautiful parks. It is conveniently located near Seattle and Bellevue.
Mercer Island offers a unique blend of tranquility and accessibility. It is a place where community thrives. The island’s rich history and natural beauty make it a special place to call home. As you explore Mercer Island, remember the stories. Remember the people who shaped this remarkable island.