Leschi Park (Seattle) facts for kids
Leschi Park is a large park in the Leschi neighborhood of Seattle, Washington. It covers about 18.5 acres (75,000 square meters). The park is named after Chief Leschi, a respected leader of the Nisqually tribe.
Most of Leschi Park is a big grassy hillside. This part of the park is west of Lakeside Avenue S. Here you can find tennis courts, picnic tables, and a playground. Across Lakeside Avenue, to the east, is the western shore of Lake Washington. This area has a small lawn and benches where you can relax by the water.
To the south of the park is Leschi Moorage. This is a place where boats are docked. It has private docks and some buildings like offices and restaurants.
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A Look at Leschi Park's Past
Leschi Park has a rich history. It was once a very important place for transportation and entertainment in Seattle.
Early Ways to Travel
From 1888 to 1940, a special cable car line ended right here at Leschi Park. This cable car connected the park to Pioneer Square in downtown Seattle.
Before big bridges were built, people used ferries to cross Lake Washington. Just like Madison Park to the north, Leschi Park was a busy spot for ferries. These ferries took people from Seattle to the Eastside of the lake.
Seattle's First Zoo
Did you know Seattle's very first zoo was located at Leschi Park? It was a popular attraction for many years. However, in 1903, the zoo moved to its current location at Woodland Park.
The Duwamish Name for the Area
The Duwamish tribe are the original inhabitants of this land. They had a special name for the Leschi area: "Changes-Its-Face." In their language, Lushootseed, this was called s7ayá7oos. This name referred to a huge and powerful supernatural horned snake. People believed this snake lived in the area.
Steamboats on Lake Washington
From around 1890 to 1910, Leschi Park was a key stop for steamboats that traveled on Lake Washington. These steamboats were a major way for people to get around the lake. They connected different communities and brought visitors to the park.
