Gazing up at the Old Watertower, have you ever imagined it as a silent guardian of Seattle’s skyline? This majestic structure, built in 1906 by the Seattle Water Department, isn’t just a pretty face. The Old Watertower plays a vital role, providing steady water pressure to the Capitol Hill community and serving as a hidden gem within Volunteer Park. Originally called the Volunteer Park Standpipe, this tower stands proudly at 75 feet, 6 inches. Its location at the highest point on Capitol Hill gives it a total elevation of 520 feet. The Old Watertower isn’t just about function. It’s a beautiful example of the Arts & Crafts architectural style. The clinker brick exterior, with its unique glazed and deformed surface, adds a touch of rugged charm. This robust material, a hallmark of Capitol Hill architecture, gives the Old Watertower a sense of age and permanence. Three stone bands accent the brick, adding to the tower’s visual appeal. Atop the tower, a conical roof, complete with a modillioned cornice and a finial ball, adds a touch of elegance. Inside, a riveted steel standpipe holds a staggering 883,000 gallons of water. Two sets of metal stairs, 106 steps each, spiral upwards like a double helix around the tank, leading to the observation deck. From the deck, sixteen arched windows offer breathtaking 360-degree views of Seattle. You can see downtown, the Space Needle, Puget Sound, and even Bellevue. The Old Watertower is more than just a water tower; it’s a testament to Seattle’s history and ingenuity.
Queen Anne Boulevard
“A scenic loop,” they called it. Queen Anne Boulevard gracefully winds around the crest of Queen Anne Hill. It offers