If you’re familiar with Fremont you know it has old and interesting architectural treasures gracing its streets. Ever wondered what the history of these buildings might be? Come to the Fremont Library during the month of May and see the marvelous display provided by the Fremont Historical Society celebrating preservation and adaptive reuse of historic Fremont buildings. Volunteers contributed time researching the buildings’ histories, interviewing current and former property owners and setting up the display featuring large before-and-after photos of the buildings accompanied by comprehensive narratives.
A featured home in the display is the Queen Anne style house at 4229 3 Ave. NW that was built in 1902 by William H. Anderson, a house painter and carpenter, during a Seattle building boom. It is currently owned and being lovingly maintained by Marcia Reed. The 1979 Seattle Historic Resources Survey described the house as “architecturally distinctive,” with its Doric columns, turret, fish scale shingles and interior woodwork.
The Fremont Historical Society was founded in July 2004 by a group of neighbors interested in learning about and showcasing Fremont’s history. The organization includes both long-time and newer community members. Meetings are held the second Saturday of each month from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. at the Fremont Library in the downstairs conference room. Since 2004 the group has focused on training its members to do research and oral history interviewing, creating a website, conducting tours, giving lectures and setting up displays. This is the third annual display at the Fremont Library by the Fremont Historical Society in celebration of National Preservation Month.
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