THE STREETCAR SUBURB: Looking Back At Eastlake
Eastlake is regarded as one of Seattle’s first and best-defined communities. Originally a forested area, by the mid-19th century it was used for agrarian purposes before being formally established as a neighborhood in 1890.
Eastlake was an attractive place to live due to its adjacency to Lake Union’s industrial and maritime activities, and the streetcar service that connected the neighborhood to downtown, the University District, and Capitol Hill (the streetcar was subsequently replaced by trolley and then diesel buses); accordingly, the residence at 214 E. Boston was built in 1903 to serve the burgeoning community.
The area remains desirable for its strong neighborhood character with trendy restaurants, biotechnology firms, and the remnants from Lake Union's history. Along with luxury townhomes, colorful Victorians and adorable single family homes, this neighborhood sports neat rows of houseboats icon to the Seattle area.
