Seattle's Unique Neighborhoods
As with many large cities in the U.S., most of Seattle's neighborhoods began as small towns outside the hustle and bustle of the city limits which narrowly covered the downtown area. As Seattle expanded, it annexed these small villages but could never destry their spirit. Seattleites from these areas still consider themselves as living in Ballard, Fremont, Leshchi, Columbia City just to name a few. The unique thing in Seattle is that, even those these areas are very close to each other and governed by the same rulers, they are all very individual and special. It is important when looking for a home in Seattle, that you become aware of what makes up each neigborhood and the special flavor of each area.
Seattleites are proud of where they live as shown by the large number of community centers, neighborhood newspapers and their special shopping areas which always include at least one espresso or coffee house.Seattle's Department of Neighborhoods (206-684-0464, www.cityofseattle.net/neighborhoods) runs the neighborhood service centers (you can get your licenses there, find out what's happening and pay fines) and administers the matching funds for local projects. Community newspapers provide valuable information about local issues, upcoming events and activities.
Unlike most other large cities, Seattle's neighborhoods do not have official boundaries. Seattle was founded on seven (7) hills just like Rome (although some have been razed by City Fathers, developers and other entrepreneurs) therefore it is difficult to say where one neighborhood on a hill stops and a new one begins.
When exploring and becoming acquainted with Seattle, especially if living in the area is in the offing, one should spend a bit of time in each neighborhood that appeals to them. The coffee houses are always a good place to start or go in the evening and have dinner (al fresco if it is summer) or breakfast is also a good choice and watch the people around you. These are most likely the ones who will be your neighbors should you select this area so make sure you are comfortable with them.
Following you will find a short synopsis on each of the neighborhoods to give you a head start. Enjoy - Seattle truly is a wonderful, diverse and exciting city in which to live and become part of. There truly is everything here - professional and semi-pro sports teams, theaters, art museums (some of the best in the world), water sports for participating or viewing including tugboat races, and the mountains less than 2 hours away for skiing, hiking, camping, fishing and just taking in the beauty. Explore and discover - and I think you will agree it is a great place to live.
FREMONT:
Self-proclaimed as the center of the universe, Fremont is one of the most eclectic neighborhoods you'll find anywhere! Not only is there a GIANT (larger than life) Enil Venkov's statute of Lenin which was originally displayed in communist Slovakia in 1988, but also also the Fremont Troll under the Aurora Bridge. The Troll has a full-size VW Bug under his hand while the statute of Lenin is actually for sale. Along with these rather unique things you will find many wonderful shops, thrift stores and of course, coffee shops. One of the true landmarks of the area is the statute located at the bus stop just north of the Fremont bridge - Waiting for the Interurban" depicts several people at the bus stop, people which the locals frequently adorn with various pieces of clothing or ornaments.
Fremont is basically a residential area with a small downtown shopping area although recently the area has seen rapid commercial growth. The population of Fremont is a combination of artists, students and young professionals. Despite the influx of commerce, the townhome and condos, Fremont has maintained its delicate balance of Bohemian culture and middle-class comfort. It is a close-knit community, popular among low and middle-income families and, fortunately still affordable for first-time homeowners.
BALLARD
Ballard is a charming quaint and delightful neighborhood originally settled by Scandinavian immigrants who were attracted to the fertile Puget Sound teeming with fish. Although currently commercial salmon fishing is restricted to local Native American tribes, Ballard remains home to many professional fishermen most of whom now sign on for the fishing ships headed up the Alaska coast where they bring back halibut, pollack, cod and salmon. The original settlers included many who worked for the local Stimson Mill.
In 1906, Seattle annexed the area of Ballard after finding a dead horse in their drinking water which forced the residents to demand the city find a new source for their water supply. Ballad is just 15 minutes north of downtown and is perched on Puget Sound enjoying some of the best views around of the Sound and the Olympic Mountains. Another awesome view privy to this area is in the off-season for fishing when the colorful fishing vessels are harbored at Fisherman's Terminal and along the Lake Washington Ship Canal. At the west end of Market Street (main street in Ballard) you will find the Hiram Chittenden Locks and the salmon fish ladder along with displays of the history of boating and fishing around Ballard.
The Scandinavian heritage is still strong in the Ballard neighborhood and festivals from the homeland are still celebrated. These include Santa Lucia, an early sait honored during the Chritstmas Season, and Syettende Mai which is Norway's Constitution Day (May 17). During these celebrations you'll find Market Street cordoned off and gaily decorated with foot traffic abundant, cheerful and welcoming.
Ballard's shopping area includes delightful Scandinavian shops, vintage consignment stores, kitchen and cookie stores along with the ever present coffee shops and bakeries to delight everyone's taste buds. There are also many wonderful restaurants and Ballard has attracted such a variety that people come from far and wide to enjoy the shops and dine at the wonderful selection of fine restaurants.
