Washington Hall
- Address: 153 14th Ave
- Date Built: 1908
- Original
Architect/Builder: Victor Voorhees (architect)/Hans Pederson (builder)
- Original
Owners: Danish Brotherhood in America, Seattle Lodge #29
- Description: Early 20th century fraternal lodge and dance hall. Eclectic architectural style with Mission Revival and Romanesque Revival elements.
Historic Seattle's Role:
Washington Hall / Photo: Marissa Natkin
With contributions from 4Culture and a short term loan from Key Bank, Historic Seattle was able to purchase Washington Hall from the Sons of Haiti for $1.5 million dollars in June of 2009. The Hall has consistently functioned as a performance space since its construction in 1908 but had fallen into disrepair in the last few decades and was in danger of demolition before Historic Seattle negotiated a purchase.
Current and Future Uses:
Washington Hall Interior / Photo: Dan Hawkins
While Washington Hall has housed arts and cultural organizations for nearly a century, it is currently in need of substantial repairs before it can be safely used again. With a $380,000 grant from the Washington State Historical Society, work is underway to remove hazardous materials from the building and implement necessary repairs including safety and security system additions, new restrooms, electrical and heating upgrades, and roof repairs. Historic Seattle has been awarded a $16,000 Landmark Challenge Grant and a $40,000 Heritage Facilities Grant from 4Culture for other necessary work to be completed in 2010. Historic Seattle hopes to have the building in working order by February 2010, when they will reopen it as a community performance hall.
The long term vision for the property is full rehabilitation and a permanent home for community arts and cultural organizations. While no official agreements have been made, Historic Seattle is talking with nonprofit arts organizations that are interested in leasing the space for rehearsals, offices, and performances. Preliminary estimates put the restoration costs at around $4 million and a capital campaign is being developed in order to secure these funds. A timeline for the entire project has yet to be determined.