Washington Hall

Frequently Asked Questions

What was Seattle's name before Seattle?

Before being named Seattle, the area now known as Seattle was inhabited by the Duwamish and Suquamish Native American tribes and did not have a single unified name. Early European settlers originally referred to the settlement as Duwamps (sometimes spelled Duwumps or Duwamish), named after the local Duwamish tribe and river. The settlement was briefly called “New York-Alki” as well, with “Alki” meaning “by and by” in Chinook jargon. In 1853, the settlement was renamed Seattle in honor of Chief Si'ahl (Chief Seattle), a respected leader of the Duwamish and Suquamish peoples, whose cooperation was instrumental to the city's founding and early growth.

How many people does Town Hall Seattle hold?

Town Hall Seattle, a historic and vibrant cultural venue located in downtown Seattle, has a flexible capacity that varies based on the configuration of its event spaces. The main performance hall, known as the Great Hall, can accommodate up to approximately 850 guests in theater-style seating. Additional event spaces within Town Hall include the Forum, which holds around 230 people, and several smaller rooms suitable for meetings and intimate gatherings. Overall, Town Hall Seattle is designed to support a wide range of events, from lectures and concerts to community gatherings, making it a cornerstone of Seattle's arts and civic engagement scene.

What is the oldest building in Seattle, Washington?

The oldest building in Seattle, Washington, is the Maynard's Cabin, also known as the Dr. David S. Maynard House. Built in 1852 by one of Seattle's founding settlers, Dr. David Maynard, this simple wooden structure is considered the city's oldest surviving building. Although it has been relocated and restored over the years, Maynard's Cabin stands as a testament to Seattle's early pioneer history. Another notable mention is the Pioneer Building, constructed in 1892, which is often cited as a historic architectural landmark but is not the oldest. Maynard's Cabin predates all other surviving structures, making it an essential part of Seattle's heritage.

Who owns Town Hall Seattle?

Town Hall Seattle is owned and operated by Town Hall Association, a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization. Established in 1998, the organization's mission is to foster an accessible and inclusive gathering place for community, arts, and civic engagement. Town Hall Association oversees the programming, maintenance, and preservation of the historic building, which was originally constructed as the Fourth Church of Christ, Scientist in 1916. By maintaining nonprofit ownership, Town Hall Seattle is able to offer affordable event space to a wide range of community groups and cultural organizations, ensuring ongoing access to enriching events and conversations for people across the Seattle area.