North of Seattle’s 50th Street lies Meridian a captivating neighborhood. It’s sometimes called Tangletown. This refers to the retail district. Its quirky street layout inspired the name. Imagine a streetcar interchange buzzing with activity. That’s what some believe gave birth to Tangletown years ago.
Meridian’s name originates from the Meridian Line a historic streetcar route. The name gained popularity thanks to brothers Stan and Milton Stapp. They published the North Central Outlook a local newspaper. They used Meridian to distinguish the area from Wallingford and Green Lake.
One of Meridian’s most prominent landmarks is the Keystone Building. Constructed in 1910 it’s a testament to the neighborhood’s history. Over the years it housed various businesses. In 1938 Barclay’s Grocery Kenwood Market and Sires Brothers Paint Company occupied it. Later Lamont’s Food Center became a fixture there until the 1980s. Then it transformed into the Honey Bear Bakery. Today the building is home to the TangleTown Public House and Mighty-O Donuts headquarters.
Meridian’s boundaries are well-defined. It’s nestled between N 50th Street to the south Green Lake Way N to the west N 60th Street to the north and Interstate 5 to the east. Its main arteries are Meridian Avenue N Kirkwood Place N Latona Avenue NE and NE 56th Street. The neighborhood has a rich history. It showcases a blend of residential and commercial spaces. The area’s evolution is reflected in its architecture its businesses and its community spirit. It’s a place where the past intertwines with the present. Explore this unique Seattle gem and discover its hidden stories.