Tag: crafts

Pikes Place Market – Seattle

Pike Place Market that overlooks the Elliott Bay waterfront in Seattle, Washington. The market has been in operation since 1907. It is a marketplace for farmers, merchants, and craftspeople. Name after the central street, Pike Place Market is visited by over 10 million people each year. It is one of the most visited tourist attractions in the world. The market is situated on the edge of a steep hill and there are several levels located below the main level. The upper level is manned by fishmongers, fresh produce stand and craft people. Through the insisten voices of local consumers and farmers, public land was designated for market use. Over the years, the market has evolved as buildings and roofs were added making the market a true establishment. In the 1920s, there developed a “mosquito fleet” (which is now the Washington State Ferry system) and consumers were ferried to the market from outlying areas. In 1963, Pike Place was nearly demolished and a proposed hotel, apartment buildings, and office space was on the table. However, due to public outcry, the market remained. In 1971 an initiative was passed that created a historic preservation zone and the market was to the public.