Seattle Historical Sites

Summary for 1421 20TH AVE / Parcel ID 77228502145 / Inv # 0

Historic Name: Common Name: Style: Queen Anne Neighborhood: Central Area Built By: Year Built: 1899   Significance This is an especially interesting example of Queen Anne architecture with a hint of Free Classic detailing. The structure exhibits a high degree of integrity despite an early addition to the rear, some minor window modifications and the addition of a textured finish to the siding. This is one of approximately 2,200 houses that are still extant out of more than 5,000 that were built by the end of 1906 in Seattle’s Central Area, Eastlake, First Hill, Leschi, Madison Park, Madrona, and North Capitol Hill neighborhoods. The structure is located in a portion of the Central Area also known as the East Madison district. This structure was surveyed for the City in 1991 (see separate database entry). A complete permit history, and a complete record of ownership and occupation have not yet been prepared for this property. BIBLIOGRAPHY King County GIS Center Property Report (http://www5.kingcounty.gov/kcgisreports/property_report.aspx; accessed August 19, 2008) King County Property Record Card (c. 1938-1972) Washington State Archives   Appearance The hip roof with intersecting cross gables is a signature feature of Queen Anne architecture. The cut-away bay at the front of the house, and the complexity of the facades generally are also typical of that style. The windows and doors are characterized by patterns and details customarily associated with Queen Anne work as well. The Tuscan columns at the porch and at the Juliet balcony give the structure a slight Free Classic flavor. This house was built in 1899 according to the King County Property Record Card; however, the King County GIS Center Property Report indicates that the structure was built in 1900 (it should be noted that the computer database from which the latter date is drawn cannot record a construction date earlier than 1900). This structure has functioned as a duplex at least since it was surveyed by the Assessor in 1937. The units are addressed as 1421 and 1423 20th Avenue. There is an early single story addition at the rear of the structure (the shed roofed extension at the south elevation appears to be original). The concrete foundation at the porch may not be original. The double door (or window) opening onto the Juliet balcony appears to be new. A textured finish has been added to the siding.

Detail for 1421 20TH AVE / Parcel ID 77228502145 / Inv # 0

Status: Yes - Inventory Classication: Building District Status: Cladding(s): Shingle, Wood, Wood - Clapboard, Wood - Drop siding Foundation(s): Brick, Concrete - Poured Roof Type(s): Flat with Eaves, Gable, Hip, Shed Roof Material(s): Unknown, Asphalt/Composition-Shingle Building Type: Domestic - Multiple Family Plan: Irregular Structural System: Balloon Frame/Platform Frame No. of Stories: two Unit Theme(s): Architecture/Landscape Architecture Integrity Changes to Plan: Slight Changes to Windows: Slight Changes to Original Cladding: Moderate Changes to Interior: Unknown Major Bibliographic References

Photo collection for 1421 20TH AVE / Parcel ID 77228502145 / Inv # 0

Photo taken Jun 15, 2008 Photo taken Jun 15, 2008