Ward House (Seattle) facts for kids
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Ward House
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Ward House, 2007
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| Location | 520 E. Denny Way Seattle, Washington |
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| Built | 1882 |
| Architectural style | Victorian |
| NRHP reference No. | 72001277 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
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| Added to NRHP | 16 March 1972 |
The Ward House is a very old and special house in Seattle, Washington. It was built way back in 1882. This makes it one of the oldest homes still standing in the city! It's known for its unique Victorian architecture style.
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The Ward House: A Historic Home
The Ward House was built in 1882 by its first owner, George W. Ward. He also designed and constructed the house himself. It was originally located on Boren Avenue in Seattle.
An Architect's View
In 1962, a famous architect named Victor Steinbrueck saw the house. He wrote that it was a "fanciful example" of Victorian style. He thought it was very interesting and should be saved. He believed it could be made "delightfully attractive" if it was cared for.
Almost Lost, Then Saved
Even though it was special, the Ward House became empty in 1974. By the mid-1980s, there were plans to tear it down. But a kind couple, Dr. and Mrs. Michael Buckley, stepped in. They owned the house and decided to give it away. They donated it to Historic Seattle. This is a nonprofit group that works to save old buildings.
Historic Seattle then sold the house to David Leen. He was a local lawyer who wanted to help save it. He bought the house for $7,500.
Moving Day!
On April 6, 1986, something amazing happened. David Leen moved the entire Ward House! It was moved from its old spot on Boren Avenue. It traveled to its new home at E. Denny Way and Belmont Avenue E. This was a huge effort to save the historic building.
After the move, David Leen worked hard to fix up the house. He used old items and furniture from the time period when the house was built. He wanted it to look just like it did in the 1880s.
For many years, David Leen used the house for his law office. Other lawyers also had offices there. In 2016, a company called Tola Capital, LLC bought the house. They updated the inside of the house. They also repainted the outside. Some people had different ideas about the new look.
A Recognized Landmark
The Ward House is very important. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This means it's recognized as a special historic site across the country. It is also an official City of Seattle landmark. This shows how much the city values its history.
Images for kids
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Ward House, 2007
