“What was once old is new again” is a saying that perfectly describes Magazine 54. This unassuming pier has witnessed Seattle’s transformation. It is now a vibrant hub. Let’s explore the story of Pier 54. It is now known as Magazine 54. We will uncover its secrets.
In the early days, after the Great Fire of 1889, Seattle was rebuilt. Among the newcomers was James Galbraith. He saw opportunity in the city’s reconstruction. He established the Galbraith Grain Company. By 1896, a dock bore his name. He became a key figure in the waterfront’s growth.
The city realized that the new construction was haphazard. City Engineer R. H. Thomson created a plan. He wanted new piers aligned. This would prevent congestion. Construction began in 1900. Pier 3 was among the first to be completed. Galbraith leased it. He partnered with Cecil Bacon. Together, they formed Galbraith Bacon and Company. It was a wholesale business. Some historians have called it the Costco of its day.
Commonly known as Galbraith Dock, it was located between Madison and Spring streets. It was a medium-sized dock. A Seattle Times article described it. It was 120 feet wide and 317 feet long. It had a two-story warehouse. It served as a freight depot. It was also a destination for steamers.
By 1910, Galbraith had moved his operations. Pier 3 continued to be known by his name. The pier served steamers to Olympia and Bremerton. It also served Alaska-bound traffic. But change was coming. Automobile traffic increased. Maintaining the pilings was a struggle.
The Port of Seattle developed harbor facilities elsewhere. Local steamer traffic declined. Airplane traffic increased. In 1929, Gorst Air Transport offered hourly service to Bremerton. It departed from Pier 3. Crowds gathered to take the nine-minute flight. Many were pleasure seekers. For some, it was their first flight.
In 1944, Pier 3 became Pier 54. After World War II, shipping operations decreased. City planners sought ways to redevelop the area. The Graham Plan called for renovation and new construction. It would be developed for entertainment and restaurants.
Ivar Haglund opened his Acres of Clams restaurant on Pier 54 in 1946. It was across from his aquarium. The restaurant has enjoyed longevity. It is still in business. From a humble eatery it has grown into a Seattle destination.
Haglund bought Pier 54 in June 1966. He wanted to control the pier’s future. He turned down an offer from the Port of Seattle. He wanted to keep the pier’s tourist appeal.
Waterfront Park opened in 1974. Redevelopment was slowed. Zoning restrictions and accessibility problems caused issues. The Harborfront Public Improvement Plan called for use zones. The central zone was slated for retail stores and restaurants. The city moved forward with redevelopment. Pier 54’s historic character was preserved.
Ye Olde Curiosity Shop moved to Pier 54 in 1988. It is a Seattle institution. It attracts tourists. It is a must-see attraction.
Haglund died in 1985. His business retained title to the pier. In 2017, it was sold to A. F. Gilmore. Ivar’s signed a 29-year lease. The restaurant carries on.
Today, Magazine 54 stands as a testament. It showcases Seattle’s history. From Galbraith’s dock to Ivar’s Acres of Clams, it has evolved. It remains a vital part of Seattle’s waterfront. Next time you are near Magazine 54 take a moment to reflect on all the events that have happened here.