What Street Is Millionaires Row in Seattle?
Tucked into the center of Seattle's Capitol Hill neighborhood lies a historic street known as Millionaire's Row. Situated on 14th Avenue East just south of Volunteer Park, this stretch of grand early 20th-century mansions was once home to Seattle's business and cultural elite.
A Who's Who of Early Seattle
In the early 1900s, Seattle was exploding, growing from a frontier outpost into a major American city. Newly minted millionaires from the lumber, shipping, and fishing industries, among others, sought to show off their wealth and prestige by building grand homes. Many chose the then-new Capitol Hill neighborhood, with its sweeping views of the city, mountains, and Lake Washington.
Some of the notable residents of Millionaire's Row included:
Lumber and shipping magnate Robert Moran, builder of the Moran Brothers Shipyard – now Vigor
Edward Ederer, founder of Ederer Fishing Net and Twine Company
Elbridge Stuart, founder of Carnation Milk Company
Charles Peabody, a prominent attorney
The Blethen family – owners of the Seattle Times
Architectural Gems
The houses on Millionaire's Row are outstanding examples of the many architecture styles that were in style at the time: Colonial Revival, Tudor Revival, French Renaissance, and Neoclassical. Most were designed by prominent local architects.
While the houses have undergone interior renovations through the years, most still sport much of their exterior glory. A walk down the street allows one to envision the lives of Seattle's early rich and famous.
Becoming a Historic District
In recognition of its important history, Seattle's Millionaire's Row was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2021. The district extends along 14th Avenue East from E Prospect Street to E Roy Street.
This historic designation celebrates Millionaire's Row as "a singular example of the residential development of Seattle's wealthiest and most influential citizens" in the early 20th century, guaranteeing that this lovely piece of Seattle's history will be preserved.
Millionaire's Row
Today 14th Avenue East is still a residential avenue, although most of the grand old homes are now divided up into apartments. It's definitely worth a walk-by to view the architecture and try to envision the area in its day.
The best way to see Millionaire's Row is on foot. It's just a few blocks south of another Seattle landmark, the famous Volunteer Park Water Tower. Walk south on 14th Avenue East and take a stroll back in time through this lovely historic district.
So next time you're in Capitol Hill, do take a detour down 14th Avenue East and experience that bygone world—Seattle's Millionaire's Row. It is a fascinating glimpse into the early history of one of America's greatest cities.
