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Seattle, Washington / History

Naval Reserve Armory

A landmark concrete structure in South Lake Union, this former naval reserve center now houses the Museum of History and Industry (MOHAI), blending Art Deco design with Seattle's regional history.

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Naval Reserve Armory
www.mohai.org, website_hero_img_www.mohai.org

What is the Naval Reserve Armory known for?

It is a landmark building in Seattle's South Lake Union neighborhood that has housed the Museum of History and Industry (MOHAI) since 2012.

Where is it located?

The armory is located at 860 Terry Avenue North, at the south end of Lake Union, approximately 2.5 miles north of downtown Seattle.

What are the hours?

Because the building houses MOHAI, it is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

How much does it cost to visit?

Admission for MOHAI is $25 for adults, $21 for seniors (65+), $19 for youth (14-17), and free for children (0-13).

What is the architectural style of the building?

The armory is a large concrete structure influenced by Art Deco and Moderne design, built by the Works Progress Administration between 1941 and 1942.

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 Naval Reserve Armory is a prominent landmark building located at 860 Terry Avenue North in Seattle's South Lake Union neighborhood. This massive concrete structure was built by the Works Progress Administration between 1941 and 1942, reflecting a blend of Moderne and Art Deco architectural movements. It was also known as the Naval Reserve Readiness Center (NRRC) during its military tenure. In 2009, Seattle's Landmarks Preservation Board approved the building's landmark designation, recognizing its architectural and historical significance. The structure underwent a conversion to house the Museum of History and Industry (MOHAI), which officially reopened the building on December 29, 2012. Today, the building serves as a hub for preserving and sharing the history of Seattle and the Pacific Northwest. MOHAI presents the city's story through a collection of exhibits, artifacts, and programs. Visitors can explore various exhibitions and experiences that detail the regional development of the Pacific Northwest. Located at the south end of Lake Union, the armory's position at the foot of Terry Avenue North provides a scenic backdrop for the museum's mission of documenting the city's history.

Visitor tips

  • MOHAI is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
  • Admission is $25 for adults, $21 for seniors 65+, and $19 for youth 14-17, while children 0-13 are free.
  • The museum is wheelchair accessible for all visitors.
  • Visit the on-site full-service cafe for a break during your museum tour.

Nearby context

The armory is situated at the south end of Lake Union in the South Lake Union neighborhood, approximately 2.5 miles north of downtown Seattle.

Sources

Evidence and links