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Seattle, Washington / Landmarks

Birthplace of Seattle Monument

A granite obelisk at Alki Point commemorating the 1851 landing of the Denny Party, the original Euro-American settlers who founded the city of Seattle.

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Birthplace of Seattle Monument
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What is the Birthplace of Seattle Monument known for?

It is a granite obelisk that marks the site where the Denny Party landed in 1851, memorializing the city's first settlers.

Where is the monument located?

The monument is located at Alki Point (Alki Beach) in West Seattle, specifically at Alki Ave. SW and 63rd Ave. SW.

When was the monument built?

The monument was erected and dedicated in 1905.

What does the monument look like?

It is a large granite obelisk or pillar inscribed with the names of the original settlers in memory of their arrival and contributions.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

The Birthplace of Seattle Monument stands as a granite obelisk at Alki Point in West Seattle. Dedicated in 1905, this large pillar serves as a permanent memorial to the Denny Party, who arrived at this coastal location on November 13, 1851. The monument marks the exact site where these first Euro-American homesteaders landed to establish their initial outpost. Architecturally, the monument is designed as a tall pillar inscribed with the names of the original settlers. These inscriptions honor the individuals' arrival and their subsequent contributions to the region. The site is located specifically at the intersection of Alki Ave. SW and 63rd Ave. SW, overlooking the waters of Elliott Bay. Historically, the landing party named their first settlement "New York Alki." The word "Alki" originates from Chinook Jargon and translates to "by and by" or "eventually," suggesting the settlers viewed the site as "New York eventually." While the Denny Party eventually moved across the bay to the area that became downtown Seattle, this monument preserves the memory of their first steps in the region.

Visitor tips

  • Combine this visit with a stroll along the 2.5 mile Alki Beach to see the surrounding West Seattle coastline.
  • Visit during the golden hour for the best photographs of the granite obelisk against the Seattle skyline.
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes as the monument is located within a popular beach attraction area.

Nearby context

The monument is a centerpiece of Alki Point, a popular attraction in West Seattle. It is situated along a 2.5 mile beach that blends historical significance with a charming town atmosphere.

Sources

Evidence and links