Beyond the West Duwamish Greenbelt’s edge lies Pigeon Point. It’s a place where history whispers through the trees. Pigeon Point also is known as Pigeon Hill. This neighborhood sits in West Seattle’s northeastern Delridge district.
Pigeon Point offers a unique blend of nature and community. You will find diverse house styles and gardens here. Creative community art adds to Pigeon Point’s inviting feel.
Let’s step back in time. Pigeon Point’s story stretches back over a century. Native American tribes once thrived here. They fished along Puget Sound. The Duwamish Tribe called this land home until 1857.
Later, loggers and gold miners shaped the landscape of Pigeon Point. The name “Pigeon Point” comes from pioneer homesteaders. They raised pigeons for meat. The land was near today’s intersection of N 50th St & Burke Ave N. Children even kept baby pigeons as pets.
In 1888, the Burke family bought land and divided it into lots. They envisioned a complete residential community. Homes, stores, schools, and churches were planned. By 1905, Pigeon Point was bustling.
Imagine an underground rail line planned for Pigeon Point in 1907. It would have connected downtown Seattle to Ballard. Unfortunately, funding fell through. In 1910, a paved road arrived. This improved access for residents of Pigeon Point.
Seattle annexed Pigeon Point in 1954. This brought shared transportation and utilities. That made Pigeon Point a nice place to live. It provided the ability to enjoy nature along its edges.
Originally, Pigeon Point was industrial. Lumber mills and metal plants were common. Shipyards also dotted the landscape. Affordable housing led to population growth. After World War II, families moved here. They took advantage of housing options.
Today, only a few industrial buildings remain in Pigeon Point. New developments have replaced older homes. These serve diverse residents.
Pigeon Point Park is part of the West Duwamish Greenbelt. The greenbelt is the city’s largest contiguous forest. It covers over 800 acres. The forest consists mainly of big leaf maple, alder, and cottonwood.
The Olmsted plan recommended purchasing land. One acre would be a level area with harbor views. Another half-acre would capture the steep bluffs.
Pigeon Point is conveniently located. There is good access to public transportation here. This includes the West Seattle Bridge and bike paths. Buses and the West Seattle Water Taxi offer routes to downtown.
The Duwamish Longhouse & Cultural Center lies down the east hillside. The Delridge Community Center and Alki Beach are nearby. Amenities line Delridge Way SW.
Pigeon Point is a hidden gem. It offers a mix of history and natural beauty. It is a testament to Seattle’s diverse past. As you explore, remember the layers of history beneath your feet. Think of the Native tribes, pioneers, and families. They all shaped Pigeon Point into what it is today.