A captivating view unfolds before us. This is Phinney Ridge a Seattle neighborhood perched atop a ridge. It separates Ballard from Green Lake. Its name honors Guy C Phinney a lumber mill owner and real estate developer.
Phinney’s story is woven into the very fabric of Phinney Ridge. In 1881 he arrived in Seattle. He purchased a vast tract of land. His estate later became Woodland Park. It even included a private menagerie. The western half now houses the Woodland Park Zoo. Phinney’s vision shaped the area’s development. He built an elegant English-style manor. He also installed a streetcar line connecting his estate to Fremont. This spurred growth. By 1900 over 1500 people lived west of Green Lake.
Phinney’s legacy extends beyond the park. Phinney Avenue N runs along the ridge south of N 67th Street. North of N 67th Street it becomes Greenwood Avenue N. This main thoroughfare is lined with shops and businesses. The Phinney Neighborhood Association resides in a former school building. It opened in 1904. The association now occupies the building. This building showcases the area’s evolution.
Even wildlife has played a role in Phinney Ridge’s history. Coyote packs roamed the area. They thrived on released domestic rabbits until February 2006. Woodland Park’s proximity contributed to this. This fascinating natural element adds to Phinney Ridge’s charm.
The story of Phinney Ridge isn’t just about a place. It’s a testament to one man’s vision. It’s also a story about nature. It’s about community growth. It’s about a neighborhood rich in history and character. A neighborhood that continues to thrive today. You can practically feel Phinney’s entrepreneurial spirit. You can almost see his deer roaming in what is now Woodland Park.