History of Olympia's Swantown
By Curt Cunningham

Olympia was built on a small peninsula pointing north into Budd's Inlet. The original shoreline at the north end of this peninsula was near State Avenue, though there was a smaller point that extended a little further north between Columbia and Washington streets, and ended at Thurston Avenue. At low tide, the East and West bay would become mudflats which extended over a half mile north of town. The mud flats presented difficulty for ocean going vessels as they could not get close to the shore. To remedy this, a "long wharf" as it was known, was built over the mud to deep water.

The Deschutes river empties into the West bay of Budd's Inlet and Moxlie creek empties into the East bay. The East bay originally extended south between Jefferson and Chestnut streets, to the south side of 8th Avenue. There was also a narrow arm continuing further south to Union Avenue. The mouth of Moxlie creek was near Union Avenue and west of Plum Street. The mudflats at the north end of town would gradually be filled in over the years, and in 1910, the East bay was filled in south of Olympia Avenue.

In 1851, John M. Swan arrived at Olympia and took a claim on the east side of town. Swan who was originally from Scotland, had sailed around South America in 1846 and landed at San Carlos, an island off the coast of Chile. In 1849, after 2 years in South America, Swan decided to travel to San Francisco to look for gold. He didn't have much luck, so on November 2, 1849, he boarded the Orbit and sailed to the Pacific Northwest. He originally wanted to settle on Vancouver Island, since he was a British subject, but he did not like the laws pertaining to land ownership, and decided instead to travel south to Olympia. On February 4, 1850, Swan made his intention known that he was to become an American Citizen.

Also in 1851, Daniel Bigelow arrived in Olympia on the schooner Exact from Portland. He took a claim just north of Swan. Bigelow was a lawyer and one of his first cases when he arrived in Olympia was to defend Michael Simmons against Clanrick Crosby during the property dispute of the Tumwater claim. In 1854 Bigelow married Anne Elizabeth White, who was one of the first school teachers in the Territory. In 1860, the Bigelow's built a fine gothic style home where they raised 8 children and lived out the remainder of their lives. On August 7, 1979, the Bigelow house on Quince Street and Glass Avenue was added to the National Historic Register, and today is a museum open to the public.

On March 19, 1851, William Norton Ayers married Sarah Ann Sanborn in Chester, WI. In 1854, the Ayers' decided to travel west to Oregon, and arrived in Olympia that fall. They took a claim on the hill east of Swan, that will become known as Ayers' hill. William and Sarah built a home and had 3 sons; John, Howard, and Walter. After 7 years, the Ayers' packed up their belongings and moved to San Jose, CA. They wouldn't stay there long, and they ended up traveling back east. In 1866, the Ayers' finally made a permanent home at Fort Smith, AR.

The East bay of Budd's Inlet originally extended as far as Union Avenue, and the only way to reach the east side was to take a canoe at high tide, or walk across the mud flats. In April of 1854, a foot bridge was built to the east side. On October 14, 1854, the contract for the building a bridge across the east bay was awarded by the Sheriff, to J. L. Perkins of Olympia. The cost of the bridge was $1,550 with the county covering $500 of the cost, and a private subscription was responsible for the remainder.

The bridge was 360 feet long and 16 feet wide with about 1/3 of it built over piles, and the remainder over substantial bents, with secure mud sills, that were planked on each side, 3 feet high, and used as banisters. The bridge deck was covered with 2.5 inch planks and was constructed 3 feet above high tide. The bridge was completed around December 25, 1854.

In 1859 the first road leading eastward from Olympia was constructed. This road, now 4th Avenue ran up Ayers' hill to the prairies. That same year, Swan platted out "Swan's Addition" to the city of Olympia and began to sell lots. Swans Addition was originally between Jefferson Street and Eastside Street, and from Olympia Avenue south to Union Street. The addition quickly became known as "Swantown," and the tide flats separating them from Olympia would become known as the Swantown Slough.

On August 23, 1862, the Washington Standard said that the city council was contemplating building an additional foot bridge on 4th Avenue, between Olympia and Swantown, plus an iron bridge to the west side of Budd's Inlet, on the same street. The bridge to the west side was not built until 1869 and was known as the Marshville bridge.

On September 30, 1865, a writer said that among the noticeable improvements in Swantown, they observed the new sidewalk running from the Swantown bridge to State Avenue. It was a great convenience to the people living north of 4th Avenue as they no longer had to climb a steep hill that was slippery in the wet season.

On February 17, 1866, the Washington Standard said that there was much interest concerning the old bridge crossing the bay to Swantown. It had become old and rotten, and was entirely unsafe for the passage of loaded wagons. It was the first county bridge, but afterwards being incorporated within the town limits, it became the town's responsibility. To build a new bridge would have been a heavy burden upon the citizens of Olympia, and the Standard had hoped that the county would appropriate funds to make the needed improvements. Regardless they said, a new bridge would have to be built by either the city, county, or both together.

On July 20, 1867, the Olympia Board of Trustees advertised for bids to build a new wagon bridge across the bay on the road leading to Swantown. On August 17, 1867, the Standard said that the contract for the new Swantown bridge was let to Mr. Ethridge for a cost of $2,300. On October 26, 1867, work began on removing the old bridge, leaving only a foot path between Olympia and Swantown. There is some confusion as who actually built the bridge, as on March 21, 1868, Mr. Finch was paid $3,144 for a contract to build the Swantown bridge as per vouchers. there were at least 3 bridges built across the East bay at 8th, 11th and Union anevues.

On Saturday June 27, 1868, William Yeager's building near the Swantown bridge caught fire. The fire started in a stove pipe which spread to the roof. Thankfully it had just rained and the roof was damp so the fire spread slowly. The Columbia Fire company was fast to the scene, but there was barely enough water in the cistern to put out the flames.

The Lost Alley

In 1869, Swantown was becoming a residential community and a suburb of Olympia. Many new homes were under construction, and the demand for more homes kept the carpenters busy. By 1870, there were 150 people living across the bay. When Francis Henry made a survey of Olympia in the summer of 1869, he found that many land owners had been erecting buildings and fences without much regard to the streets and alleys as described on the original town plat. It was worse in Swantown where the discrepancy between the fences and the actual line amounted to more than several feet. There were many suggestions on how to remedy the situation, all of which were given by the owners, who expected the city to move the lines to suit them.

On September 7, 1872, the Washington Standard said that surveyor, Charles White was making the streets of Swantown farther from their present lines than the previous survey did. The paper then said; "If any more measuring is done, that part of town will be on this side of the bay."

On September 11, 1872, surveyor Henry wanted to tell his side of the story about the new survey, and wrote in to the Washington Standard. He explained to his Swantown neighbors, the great difference in the survey he took in 1869, and the 1872 survey taken by Charles White. Henry said that in Swan's Addition, the corner of Mr. Holmes property on 4th and Pear streets was 10 feet over the line bisecting his woodshed and barn. (Which didn't make him very happy.) The new survey of Holmes property showed he was 23 feet over the line. (Which made him even more unhappy, as he was certain the new survey would prove the old survey was wrong in his favor.) Henry said that Holmes had been living in the streets of Olympia for the past 14 years. 

Surveyor White had given the following report on 4th Avenue; "On 4th Avenue, I have found a difference in the old survey increasing eastward, at Mr. Henry's corner about 20 feet, at Mr. Holmes' corner about 23 feet, and at Mr. Abbott's corner about 26 feet, said corners being that much in the street. As a rectification in this case would seem impossible without a great expense, and as no authentic or reliable plat has been filed of said Swan's Addition to Olympia, I would suggest, if consistent with the duty of your Honorable body, to so alter the said plat, as to cause the difference to be thrown in a street on the west side of said Swan's Addition extending southward as far as 8th Avenue, making it so much wider and allowing the improvements to remain as near as may be where they are, adopting some point for an initial point in 4th Avenue in said Swan's Addition before the corners to streets are finally established."

The corners referred to in the above report as Mr. Henry's, Mr. Holmes', and Mr. Abbott's corners, were the fence corners supposed to be in accordance with Swan's original survey. White's suggestion was adopted by the board making Mr. Holmes very happy. Holmes wouldn't be happy for long as Henry questioned the legality of the Board's decision.

Henry said; "if I have been enabled to look quietly on whilst the corners which I had established in Swantown were ruthlessly changed, whilst streets were widened, the plats altered, and the recorded evidence of my labors repudiated, it has been because I was sustained in the reflection that they would not with such measurement as they were making, discover the monuments of solid stone which I had planted, and that after they had done their best in the way of vandalism, when they had got me so low down that I could fall no lower, these monuments would still remain, and I should rise again to show how I have got them by the stones."

Henry's report showed the width of the tier of blocks cut by the north and south line dividing the claims of Sylvester and Swan, to be, according to the official plats, 250 feet, instead of only 240 feet with no alley as White's survey said. On September 23, 1872, John Swan wrote his opinion on the dispute and said that he supported Henry's 1869 survey and discounted White's survey. He then chastised the Olympia town council saying that they "should attempt so ridiculous a stretch of power, as to take from the lot owners in the above said range of blocks, a large percentage of their property (which they have bought and paid for) and add it to some street already 60 feet wide. I am unwilling to believe, and should rather think I am misinformed on the contemplated action of the council."

"I shall here briefly state, for those concerned, my own connection with the surveys of Swantown. Having made the original surveys of that place, and operating with a chain (of two poles) which were between three and four inches too long, a circumstance of which I was not cognizant at the time. The excessive length of chain involves an undue extension of the surveys equal to about ten or twelve inches to one hundred feet. For that error I hold myself to blame. I shall conclude by recommending the city council to leave the range of blocks above referred to at 250 feet as originally laid out, and sold to purchasers, and not reduce the same to 240 feet, as recommended by Mr. White."

The city must have agreed with Henry and Swan and did not follow through with White's plan. Most of the streets in downtown Olympia are 60 feet wide with the exception of Main Street which is 75 and 80 feet wide. From Jefferson Street eastward, 4th Avenue is 80 feet wide.

4th Avenue is Improved

On February 2, 1870, the City of Olympia paid Billings and Balch $700 for the construction of a new bridge over the Swantown slough. On March 19, 1870 Hazard Stevens presented a petition to the town council asking for the repeal of the ordinance prohibiting fast riding or driving over Olympia's bridges. It is unknown if he succeeded.

On December 21, 1872, the work on 4th Avenue up Ayer's hill in Swantown was completed. The roadbed was graded, puncheons were laid, and ditches were dug on both sides of the road for about 300 yards. The improvement made the eastern approach to town that was dreaded in the rainy season, equal to any other street in town.

On November 1 1873, Morrell & McEwen presented the city of Olympia with a bill for the loss of cattle that died when a part of the Swantown bridge collapsed while the cows were crossing over it. The council refused to pay.

On January 17, 1874, William Ranous, a carpenter residing in Swantown, examined both the Swantown and Marshville bridges, and pronounced them both very unsafe. Ranous said; "that the public authorities are guilty of an outrage in permitting them to remain in their present condition. We think we hear some malicious member of the Town Board muttering, as he reads the above, 'perhaps he wants a job.' Speaking of bridges, it is the very general opinion, of those who know anything about it, that the bridge over the deep hollow, on Main Street, near P. D. Moore's place, is liable to go down at any time under a heavily loaded wagon."

On Monday afternoon April 19, 1875, a stringer of the Swantown bridge gave way while a heavily loaded wagon was passing over it. This caused the timbers and planking for a space of 12 or 15 feet and the whole width of the bridge, to fall into the mud below. The wagon was fortunately caught by the projecting timbers, while the team maintained a sufficient foothold on the solid planking that held them in their perilous position. It was fortunate that the accident was no worse. The town escaped a bill of damages in 1873, from the same cause. The newspaper said that repairs were urgently needed and that; "The old adage, An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, is proven by experience to be founded in wisdom."

On July 29, 1876, bids were received for raising the eastern end of the Swantown bridge, and $200 was approved to be spent on improving 4th Avenue in Swantown. Mr. Littlejohn was awarded the contract for grading 4th Avenue, from Plum to Pear. Littlejohn received .27 cents per cubic yard for the excavation and removal of earth. 

On August 5, 1876, Mr. Mossman was awarded a contract to construct a new road to the top of Ayer's hill and for the building of a new bridge on 11th Avenue near Judge Green's residence. This project and the one to raise the eastern end of the Swantown bridge were completed in a few months. The road into town from the east now had a much improved appearance that was a benefit to the traveling public.

On April 7, 1877, the Washington Standard said that the Swantown people on 4th Avenue seemed determined to make that avenue a credit to themselves and the town, by continuing the grading work. When completed the paper said; "4th Avenue will rival Main Street in beauty." In the spring of 1878, work continued on 4th Avenue up Ayer's hill. The soil from the excavation was used in filling up the depressions at the west end of the Swantown bridge.

A Navigable Channel?

The East bay was not considered a navigable channel for vessels and was referred to as a slough by the locals. But during high tide, small boats and barges would travel up the bay. There were many buildings along the shoreline that had dock's for loading and unloading cargo. The gas works was located at the corner of 6th Avenue and Plum Street. The shoreline was about 100 feet west of Plum Street. Coal from South Prairie (southeast of Tacoma) was loaded at the Port of Tacoma and brought up to Olympia where it would be discharged from their wharf.

On January 30, 1885, the City Surveyor said that the stream beneath Eastside bridge was not, at that point, understood to be a navigable channel, the meander line was some distance north of 4th Avenue. It was only by the grace of God and the generosity of the city authorities that the bridge was opened by the removal of the span for the passage of pile drivers and loaded barges. The surveyor then gave a stern warning that he was quite certain that; "so long as there existed a broad expanse of deep water above the bridge at each high tide, the smaller craft would be clamoring for a passage either way, above or below 4th Avenue."

"If the present method of taking up the planking and removing bents, continued to be practiced for each and every occurrence, the longevity of the bridge would be of short duration. He ended his speech by saying that; "the proper authorities should see to it that the bridge over the channel either remains a solid structure, or a light and easily operated draw should be immediately erected."

On Monday March 2, 1885, an ocean going sailing ship had passed up the channel that divided the downtown with the Eastside. The schooner General Harney came up with a cargo of South Prairie coal that was purchased by the gas works. To avoid the delay and extra expense of discharging the coal to a lighter vessel, the middle bent of the 4th Avenue bridge was removed and the gallant ship was allowed to pass into the bay above. The General Harney was then moored along side the company's wharf. The newspaper said that; "it appeared after all, that the waterway beneath the Eastside bridge is practically a navigable channel."

It is unclear if the city stopped removing the center span to allow ships through. Though it appears they stopped the practice and ran scows under it instead. Because on December 10, 1886, a scow loaded with South Prairie coal was discharged at the gas works. Before the craft could pass under the eastside bridge, the house had to be removed.

It wouldn't matter much if they ruined the bridge by taking it apart as after 1890, Olympia was electrified by Tumwater falls, and the gas works was bought up by the electric company, which slowly phased it out of business. Plus the 4th Avenue bridge would be filled in across the bay preventing any more vessels from going above 4th Avenue.

Swantown Becomes the Eastside

In the mid 1880's some Olympia residents, in the course of social discussions, were saying; "what Belltown is to Seattle, Swantown is to Olympia." In the spring of 1885, the Washington Standard discussed the designation of the suburban precincts in Olympia. They said that "Eastside" was far more appropriate than "Swantown," which as they put it might serve for a goose-pasture, "Westside" seemed to fit better than "Marshville," which they said gave the impression that the place was full of croaking frogs and the odor of skunk cabbage. They also said that; "East Olympia and West Olympia seemed too pretentious for a town too small to divide up into quarter sections. Eastside and Westside are short and expressive, and add in Northend and Southend to designate the other extremes, the plan would soon become popular with all who would save their jaw-tackle."

In the mid 1880's John Corkish built a pipe factory on the Eastside just north of the Eastside bridge. The Washington Standard said that Corkish; "who had arrived a short time ago, had developed a business that resembled a miniature village. Pity 'tis 'tisn't on the Westside."

On Wednesday evening on July 28, 1886 at 11pm, a furious runaway occurred when Ellis Bigelow was going home in the family carriage. When he was near the Methodist church the horses became unmanageable from fright and started into a fearful run. The young man was thrown out in front of George Barnes' home when the crazy animals had it all to their own, and went tearing across Eastside bridge and then up 4th Avenue to the imminent danger of whoever or whatever might have been in their way.

When passing the residence of Mrs. L. M. Clark, they came in contact with a stout hitching post which caused a separation between horses and carriage. A portion of one harness was left hanging to the hitching post and the vehicle was pretty badly smashed. The unfortunate occupant of the carriage was found by Mr. Goodnight and Edward Toelner and was carried to his home in an insensible condition. The horses were captured near Mark Jones' place by Harmon Cassiday, and were properly cared for till the next day. One of the animals was badly injured in the breast. Ellis Bigelow did not come out of his stupor till the next morning and was unable to talk much about the mishap. He was seriously bruised about the head and face, and his jawbone was thought to he broken or dislocated. It was some time before he recovered from his injuries.

In 1886, a resident of downtown Olympia said that; "an Eastside dog, passes his plate for more, when given his morning meal. There are some doggoned folks across the slough." It was then said that; "Whenever it rains in the afternoon, an eastside dog, of his own accord, carried a pair of rubber boots to the school building so that his young lady owner could come home dry shod." It was also said that; "An Eastside cat, had adopted the fashion of curling her tail over her back like a dog." And just when you thought the Eastside was going to the dogs, the City Marshall began enforcing the ordinance prohibiting animals from running at large on the Eastside, after which all the favorite dogs began to sport neck ornaments.

The Swantown bridge became known as the Eastside bridge in the 1880's, and on August 3, 1886, a new Eastside bridge was completed over the slough. The bridge was 300 feet long, and 20 feet wide with 3 inch planking. On August 2, 1887, construction was completed on the replanking of the Eastside bridge. This time they placed the planking on the diagonal principal. 

On August 17, 1886, John Byrne, who owned a grocery store on the Eastside, established a new delivery service from his store to customers around the Olympia area.

On October 1, 1886, Thomas Tallentire, purchased some cows from Mr. Hoffman and established the Clover Hill Milk Ranch, near his home on the Eastside. He partnered up with John McLeod to conduct the dairy business.

On May 13, 1887, Mr. W. Hoffman vacated his store on the corner of Main and 5th and moved to his new store on 4th and Quince in Eastside. In July, his business, the Hoffman Stove and Hardware Company of the Eastside, received a new shipment of goods from Boston.

In the summer of 1887, there was only one unoccupied house on the Eastside.

On August 5 1887, the Eastside Brickyard fired up the kiln.

In the fall of 1887, the "olden time" puncheon street crossings were giving way to good substantial plank structures, though they were a little less in width than the sidewalks they were connected to.

On December 30, 1887, Ordinance No. 265 was approved by the Olympia town council. The Ordinance established the grade of 4th Avenue from Jefferson to Eastside streets at 1 foot above the common bench-mark. At the center of 4th Avenue and Cherry street 1 foot above base. At center of 4th Avenue and Chestnut street, 7 feet above base. At center of 4th Avenue and Plum street, 22.5 feet above base. At center of 4th Avenue and Pear street, 28.75 feet above base. At center of 4th Avenue and Quince street, 28.75 feet. At center of 4th Avenue and Eastside street, 38 feet above base.

On February 3, 1888, stakes were driven across 4th Avenue, on the Eastside, to warn teamsters that their teams and wagons could be in danger of sinking to unknown depths on the new grade.

During May of 1888, the old Dobbins blacksmith shop was moved to the Eastside.

On October 26, 1888, a pile driver was at work placing piles for a new sidewalk across the Eastside bridge on the north side. The citizens had petitioned for this a few years back and were finally getting their wish.

On October 26, 1888, John Byrne, the eastside grocer, had sold his stock of goods and leased his building to Mr. C. F. Allen and Roy B. McCausland, who took over the establishment. Byrne was contemplating a trip to Europe. On July 11 1890. John Byrne was still contemplating, this time he was contemplating on building another large building on 4th Avenue near Chestnut, adjoining his Eastside store and residence.

The main supply of water in 1888 was derived front Lake Ferguson, a small lake, situated about 3 miles south of the city. The water was distributed by gravity and was of excellent quality. The supply was unlimited. The water works was controlled by private enterprise.

One of the most important local industries of Olympia in the late 1880's, was the pipe factory. It was located at 3rd Avenue and Chestnut and was owned and operated by John Corkish. The company employed about a dozen men and turned out a product that found a market all over the coast, and as far east as Utah and Colorado. The pipe was bored from fir logs, of 4, 6, 8, 10, and 12 inch sizes, and in 8 feet lengths. It was afterwards banded and coated with asphaltum, and was said to be capable of withstanding any pressure.

By the end of the 1880's, the Eastside was experiencing a sort of a boom. The real estate market was booming, new businesses were setting up shop and many businesses in downtown, moved to the Eastside. On February 2, 1889, A. J. Silsby sold 20 acres on the Eastside about a mile from downtown, for $3,500. He originally purchased the land in 1887 for $200. On February 22, 1889, Rebecca Howard's place on the Eastside sold for $20,000.

On March 6, 1889, at the city council meeting. The grading and improvement of Adams Street from 4th Avenue to 15th Avenue had necessitated the grading and improvement of all the streets crossing Adams street between said points; 5th Avenue, from Columbia Street to the east side of Jefferson Street. 6th and 7th Avenue, between the same points. 8th Avenue, from Columbia Street to the shore of the eastern arm of Budd's Inlet. 9th and 10th Avenue, from Water to Cherry streets. Union Avenue from Water Street to Eastside street. 11th, 12th and 13th avenues from Water street to the east side of Jefferson Street. 14th Avenue from Main Street to the east side of Jefferson Street and Eastside Street from Union Avenue north to 4th Avenue. On December 20, 1889, the gravel on the newly graded streets had been packed into a fine track for wagons, and it "exceeded the best expectations as a top dressing for thoroughfares subject to moderate use."

On August 2, 1889, the planking on the Eastside bridge was in a dilapidated condition from all the traffic it was getting. All travel going from from Olympia to Tacoma was crossing over this bridge. In February of 1890, the city was mulling the idea of repairing the bridge after the rains caused a slide on the south embankment.

On December 6, 1889, a broad crossing was laid down across 4th Avenue at the corner of the Eastside grocery store.

The Lights Come On in Eastside

On January 8, 1888, preparations were made to install the first electric light on the Eastside. On January 29, 1888, the new electric light on the Eastside, only made it all the more apparent that a similar light should have been installed over the middle of the bridge. On November 14, 1890, a new electric light was installed on the Eastside bridge, and "it made everybody smile." On January 9, 1891, another electric light was installed near the foot of Ayer's hill. This one was at the corner of 4th Avenue and Eastside streets.

On December 28, 1888, "Let your light shine," was the motto of the Olympia Gas Works. With a population of 3,500 Olympia had a fine electric light plant and gas works. The stock of the company was controlled by residents of the city and the gas works is of superior quality. The company imported the best gas coal that had been discovered on the Pacific coast, and as a consequence the quality of the light furnished was remarked by all strangers. The dynamo of the electric light plant had a capacity of thirty arc lights and twenty-five of them were in use in street lights and mercantile houses. The rapid growth of the city and the prospects of increase the coming year, compels the company to increase their plant. It was proposed to double the capacity of the works and plans were already made for the alterations in the buildings. Work will be commenced as soon as settled weather arrived. The consumption of gas at present was 8,000 feet per day and 125 meters were in use with 2 miles of street mains.

In 1890, the Olympia Light and Power Company began operation at Tumwater. They generated electric power from a waterwheel at the middle falls. They bought out the gas works and would phase it out of business.

Love on the Eastside in the Victorian Era.

From the mid 1880's to the early 1890's, the Eastside was experiencing rapid growth. Matrimonial unions were also experiencing this rapid growth. The Washington Standard said in the spring of 1885; "The Eastside is convulsed by a marriage boom and nobody knows where it will end."

On March 25, 1887, the Washington Standard said that the garden of Eden was "eastward." and Mark Jones' garden is also on the Eastside.

One evening during August of 1886, an Eastside man took a young Eastside woman to a lawn party. There they danced several times, though he didn't say but 3 words to her. The newspaper didn't think he was bashful, he just didn't have an opportunity to say much more. The paper then said that; "Smiles are said to date from the Garden of Eden, when Adam smiles because Eve stubbed her toe (figuratively speaking) resulting in her dismissal from the garden, but because he had to go as well, is where the laugh comes in, and Eve has been laughing ever since." Sounds like the young couple were thrown out of the party.

On November 25, 1887, William E. Bigelow and Jennie Osborn, both from Olympia were married at Judge Bigelow's house by Reverend R. H. Massey. A few weeks later, Reverend Massey married Clayton Aldridge and Minnie Lansdale, daughter of Dr. R. H. Lansdale at the bride's home on the Eastside. The next morning the newlyweds took the train for California on their honeymoon.

In the fall of 1888, the new sidewalk leading across the bay to the Eastside, made a splendid moonlight promenade for the young couples of Olympia.

In the late summer of 1889, an Eastside girl became annoyed by a persistent beau who came often and stayed late. She did her best to spurn the young beau, but he was completely impervious to the hints she was making. She had to find a way to rid herself of him. Then one day she found an article titled "For Young Ladies to Read." The article gave her a way to rid herself of the obnoxious swain. The next day when he came calling at her home, she gave him a pencil and paper and said; "Now make a row of 11 ciphers; now make a perpendicular mark downward on the right side of the first cipher; upward on the right side of the fourth; downward on the right side of the fifth; upward on the right side of the seventh and eighth; downward on the right side of the tenth." She then asked him to read what he wrote. The effect was said to be electrical.

On August 23. 1889, D. B. Ward and Mary Burkett were married at the bride's mother's home on the Eastside. Reverend Pope of the Baptist church led the ceremony. The pair left the next day on the train for Portland. It was said that Miss Burkett was one of the few remaining typical girls of Olympia, and was popular with the town's residents. Ward was a prominent lawyer of Olympia. 

Sometime in the spring of 1894, a young Eastside couple agreed to marry when the ground was broken for the new capitol building. The newspaper said that the prospect in their engagement was broken before the ground of the Capitol site.

The Eastside in the 1890's

On May 4, 1890, the Eastside brickyard was to resume operation. The real estate market was showing no signs of slowing. The neighboring prairies were covered with green strawberries, and 4th Avenue was now the busiest thoroughfare in Olympia.

On June 6, 1890, Ordinance No. 395, was approved. It was an Ordinance to amend an Ordinance, and was entitled "An Ordinance to establish the grade of Fourth street from Main street to the east limit of the city and to repeal an Ordinance to establish the grade of Fourth street from Jefferson to Eastside streets in the City of Olympia." the ordinance was Approved December 29th, 1887, and was to be amended as follows;"

"That the grade of Fourth street is hereby established as follows; At center of Columbia street 2 feet above base. At center of Main Street 2 feet above base. At center of Washington street 2 feet above base. At center of Franklin street 2 feet above base. At center of Adams street 2 feet above base. At center of Jefferson street 2 feet above base. At center of Cherry street 2 feet above base. Eastside of Chestnut street 6 feet above the base. At center of Plum street 22 feet above base. At center of Pear street 26 feet above base. At center of Quince street 30 feet above the base. At center of Eastside street 39 feet above base. At center of Boundary street 91 feet above base. At center of Central street 140 feet above base. At the center of Prospect street 161 feet above base. At a station 510 feet east of the center of Prospect street 185 feet above base. At the east Boundary of the City of Olympia 193 feet above base."

During February of 1890, trolley cars were running on 4th Avenue to Eastside. It usually took about 8 minutes to ride on the trolley from 4th Avenue to the terminal at 12th Avenue. The average number of passengers each way was about half a dozen.

On September 26, 1890, work was progressing on the new Eastside bridge on 4th Avenue, and Hoffman's Eastside store building was raised up to the level of the new 4th Avenue grade.

On October 17, 1890, loggers were rafting piles under the Eastside bridge to the upper bay for the Northern Pacific. The rails leave the mainline at St. Clair, and run through a tunnel under the city, then continue over the Deschutes river and West bay. The railroad built a switchyard just below the Capitol campus at the northern end. Today, Powerhouse Road travels through the old switchyard.

In February of 1891, the trolley line on 4th Avenue was extended to the Eastside bridge. On the morning of July 28, 1891, the first trolley car ran over the Eastside bridge to Eastside Street. On February 27, 1891, 4th Avenue was now planked from Eastside bridge to Main Street.

On October 23, 1896, the Washington Standard said that; "a new meat market opened up in the Grosvenor building. So half dozen places ought to be enough to supply the Olympia flesh eaters."

On August 19, 1898, T. H. Phipps went into business with Charles Lansdale, at the Eastside grocery. On May 12, 1899, Charles Lansdale bought out Phipps at the Eastside grocery.

In the late 1800's during the winter after a snow fall, the local youths would climb to the top of Ayer's hill and sled down 4th Avenue to the bay. They called it "coasting" instead of sledding back then. On January 28, 1898, Merritt Marr the 14 year old son of the Eastside druggist, had a painful accident while coasting with his friends down Eastside hill. He was the steerman and lost control of the sled, when it jumped the track and everyone fell out. Merritt's head hit something sharp that cut a long gash just above the ear which required stitches.

It Did Not Pan Out

On February 8, 1895, a couple of hobos were languishing in jail, for an unusual theft. The paper said that; "We have heard of toughs stealing coppers off a dead man's eyes, and the act is regarded as one of peculiar heinousness, but whether this is owing to-the defunct condition of the gentleman who is robbed, or the theft of an article of so small a value as pennies, is not quite clear. The stealing of copper from a malt pan, as was attempted by hobos Edward Evans and W. R. Bailey, is, however, unique, the average tough presumably having a reverence for an article of such prime necessity.

"It seems that the disused brewery on Eastside, the property of Mrs. Miller, has been for some time the rendezvous of hobos, and as they discovered amid the stores, a couple of casks of ale. It has been a 'dandy' place for the congregation of tramps of all sorts. One night the police raided the brewery and hauled in 8 hilarious hobos and placed them the next day at work on the streets. Had they confined their depredations to the absorption of liquids they might not have gotten into serious trouble, but the desire to appropriate everything of value was the snag against which they ran."

"There was a large copper malt pan in the brewery, in the construction of which several hundred pounds of pure copper had been used, and to turn this into cash was an object that could not be resisted. So they began cutting it up into pieces that could be banded together. They then secured a boat, to take the plunder to Tacoma to be sold to some junk dealer. But like other 'best laid schemes of men and mice.' it came to naught, while 2 of the conspirators, were caught in the act, and were awaiting orders for a trip to Walla Walla. One of the hobos, John Horley, was the lookout, and he made his escape by a hasty 'skedaddle,' leaving his comrades to their fate."

More Cowbell?

Cows roaming the streets were probably very annoying as they ate the gardens of the eastside residents. But getting awakened in the dead of night by a clanging cowbell is another annoyance most could not bear. On May 8, 1896, another petition regarding the cow ordinance was read recommending that Eastside Street on the east, and the city line on the south, as the limits that cowbells be abolished and it made the special duty of some officer to see that the ordinance would be enforced. The petition was referred by the council.

On October 5, 1900, "Oly" said that when Eastside residents had their nocturnal slumbers disturbed by the mellifluous tinkle of the cowbell, they arose in their wrath and night-gowns and proceeded at once to remove the "sounding brass" from bossy's neck and safely deposit it in the bay. So far the residents were plainly in the lead, but what was to their consternation, the next night, to hear the same familiar sound as the cows cropped the herbage on the lawn. New bells had been bought and were hung on bossy's neck by stout chains and united with a lock to guard against removal. Now the residents are clubbing together to purchase a burglar's complete outfit, including files, jimmies, saws and "can- openers," with which to remove the offending sleep-breakers. The result was awaited with much interest.

The Eastside Tragedy

On February 17, 1900, a horrible tragedy occurred on the mudflats east of Olympia. The community was inexpressibly shocked that Saturday morning after hearing that Miss Essie Cullen, a daughter of William Cullen who was one of Olympia's oldest and most respected citizens, had been missing from home for many hours that day and grave apprehensions had existed for her safety. It seems that Miss Cullen had been living with her sister, Mrs. Shazer, and as she had left home with the intention of visiting her father on Eastside, it was very natural that very little uneasiness would be aroused by her absence.

On Saturday morning, however, when it was ascertained that she had left her father on Thursday evening the 15th, and the house of a neighbor the same night, to take part in a rehearsal at St. John's church, and that after that time nobody had seen her. It was at once realized that something terrible had happened to the young woman. The first thought was to make a search in the neighborhood of her home, in the hope that she might possibly be found with some of her many girl associates, and as that failed, the inquiry gradually turned to the highway and the arm of the East bay over which she would probably have passed by way of the 8th Avenue bridge.

About 11am on the 17th, an object was discovered by aid of a glass which seemed to be the body of a person, on the flats about a hundred yards from the bridge. When Mr. Savage, one of the searchers, waded out to the object it was found to be the body of the unfortunate girl, lying face down and partially covered with mud. The body was immediately taken to the undertaking establishment of the Bates Brothers.

On Saturday afternoon of the 17th, a jury consisting of C. H. Pridham, Charles S. Wilcox, J. H. Whelpey, L. G. Abbott, D. R. Barry, and E. T. Young, was empanelled by Coroner Hartsock, and an investigation began which continued at intervals for several days up to the day of burial on Tuesday the 20th. Nothing was found to change the verdict prepared at their first meeting that Essie Cullen came to her death by drowning, but that whether it was by accident or intentional, they could not determine.

The newspaper said that; "Nobody who knew the girl believed that her death was that of a suicide. Her temperament and disposition forbid such a belief. She possessed a happy, contented mind, and when engaged in any special work, as she was when preparing for the church entertainment in contemplation, she possessed an enthusiasm which left no place for despondency which precedes self-immolation. That she was foully dealt with, finds even less believers, for it is not known that she had an enemy in the world, and the absence of motive would seem to close the door to that supposition."

"It was far more probable that her death was attributable solely to accident. She was subject at times to fainting spells, and it was possible that one of these came on at a time when, with the slippery nature of the roadway, she fell, and slid or rolled into the bay. This at least is the most probable solution of the mystery, and was to some degree sustained by the testimony of Wilbur McMillan, a resident at Eastside and 9th Avenue, who started from his home Thursday evening to attend prayer meeting, which fixes both date and time positively, and conformed to other circumstantial details."

"He saw Miss Cullen shortly after 7pm, while he was passing the old laundry building. She was coming as if from the residence of George E. Blankenship (which surmise was true.) He said she turned down 8th Avenue and passed onward towards the bridge. He stepped aside a moment, not to exceed, he says, 2 minutes, and when he renewed his journey, Miss Cullen could nowhere be seen. She might have passed on in the time he was delayed. He declares, however, that he saw two human forms on the bridge, the proverbial "long and short man," but thought nothing of the matter."

"They were just leaving the bridge and going towards the railroad track. George Lawton, a young man living on the railroad track on 8th Avenue, declared that a tall woman, wearing a turban hat and dark veil, whom he took to be the deceased, called at his residence on Friday night, and inquired the time of day. It was just 7:15 and of course her request fixed the hour on his memory, and that the snow and sleet on the ground seemed to substantiate his statement of the night."

"It is probable, however, that his identification is at fault, although no unknown lady had yet appeared to straighten out the labyrinth of doubt. The funeral rites of deceased took place Tuesday February 20, 1900 at 2pm. in St John's church, before a large and sympathetic congregation. Many floral offerings testified to love borne for her in life. The Rebecca Degree Lodge, I. O. O. F., of which she was a member, attended as a body and took part in the ceremonies at the grave. The pall-bearers were members of the Typographical Union, of which likewise she was an honored member. They were H. L. Keady, Charles E. Orange, Frank Murphy, L. Van Osdell, S. Rowell and Frank Reisenweber."

"Essie Cullen was born in Lewis county in 1868. Early in the 1880s she came with her father's family to Olympia, where she had since resided, except when employed at her trade in other places. Shortly after she came to Olympia she began an apprenticeship at typesetting in the office of the Washington Standard, which extended over about 2 years. She was industrious and faithful. She possessed a genial nature, a happy disposition, and was loved and respected by all who knew her. She worked for a time, a few years ago, in a printing office at Kelso, and another at Aberdeen. Her last employment was, we believe, in the State printing office at Olympia. How amply this sad event emphasizes the words of Bishop Heber"...

"Death rides on every breeze,
He lurks in every flower."

On February 23, 1900, a pack belonging to a hobo was found on Eastside near Lum Jo's garden while detectives were working to find some clue to Miss Cullen's tragic fate. The pack contained a variety of articles, evidently purloined, among which were 4 umbrellas, a small mirror, a pair of overalls, a comb, hat and other articles. The pack was sent to the sheriff's office for further investigation. It is unknown if any foul play was determined by the investigation.

Eastside in the Early 1900's

On October 26, 1900, John Byrne purchased the E. L. Van Epps property on 4th Avenue between Plum and Pear streets. The property included a large residence and a small office building on the 2 lots.

On July 25, 1902 the Eastside bridge was finally getting some attention form the Street Commissioner for the badly needed repairs.

On December 18, 1903, the Washington Standard said that Eastside was fortunate to have Robert Marr as their druggist. He performed the important service of dispensing prescriptions and gave an affordable and reliable service. His Home and Drug Store was also stocked with a large and varied assortment of stationary, confectionary and novelties, which were attracting the public eye.

On February 3, 1905, Daniel Bigelow, who had for years operated the Eastside Dairy, and sold out a year ago, to Hock & Beldman, had repurchased the business and resumed the service of delivering milk to customers in Olympia.

On August 18, 1905, the old brick yard on 4th Avenue and Eastside Street was being graded to fill up a hole in the ground that was made from digging out the clay for the kilns over the past 30+ years.

On March 11, 1906, a fire broke out at Charles M. Dyer's home at 1411 4th Avenue on Ayer's hill. The long distance the firemen had to travel and the low pressure at such an altitude, were serious drawbacks. The crew resorted to using a chemical fire retardant, which gave them the opportunity to demonstrate its effectiveness. The fire was confined to Dyer's place, although the row of buildings for a time was threatened. Dyer was able to save his furniture on the lower story, the rest was covered by insurance. The alarm was turned in from a box on 6th and Eastside, but a telephone call to the department reached the firemen before the alarm was received from the call box, which enabled the crew to act that much quicker.

On May 11, 1906, the Turner Addition was filed with the City Clerk. This new addition to Olympia was a 1 acre tract located on the north side of 4th Avenue at the city limits on Eastside.

The Widening of 4th Avenue

On May 10, 1907, a proposition was submitted for widening 4th Avenue. The paper said it should have been done in 1890, but the project was defeated by a misunderstanding between the First National Bank and the City Council. The authorities had virtually contracted for a vacant 20 foot space, that was now occupied by the Harris building. It was proposed to deed this to Gen. McKenny who had agreed to place his 4-story brick building back, and donating as an equivalent, a like strip on the south side of 4th Avenue.

It was then proposed to condemn the Boyd building, on the opposite corner, and J. C. Horr had agreed to pay $1,000 for the remaining 5 feet after deducting the space for widening, as a bonus to the fund that was required for the condemnation award. All the other buildings were either back the required distance to clear the proposed line or could have been easily moved to line. The street on Eastside was 80 feet wide and the bridge to Westside was the same width, and everything seemed favorable for placing the width of the principal street where it should have been established on the original plat.

Everything seemed fine until the Harris interest stepped in and bought the vacant fraction of a lot that was necessary to place the McKenny building upon the proposed south line of the street. Owing to the advanced cost of remedial changes at this time, there was no effort to widen the thoroughfare any farther than from Jefferson Street to Franklin Street, a distance of a little over 800 feet, leaving the thoroughfare from that point to the Westside bridge, 60 feet wide. 

The newspaper thought it was an unsatisfactory solution of the matter but they figured it was probably the best that could be done, and better than could have been accomplished after other permanent buildings had been constructed. A petition was presented to the city council asking for this improvement was signed by; Millard Lemon representing 240 feet frontage, Herman Meyer 60 feet, C. Holthusen 60 feet, A. Bettman 120 feet and T. L. Brown 60 feet. It was contemplated, of course, to assess the cost to both sides of the street, but that the right of way out of necessity, was accorded on the south side of the street.

The Big Fire of 1909

At about 5:30 Saturday evening on July 3, 1909, as many people were enjoying their evening meal, the scream of steam whistles and the solemn tones of the fire-bell, gave notice that the dreaded visitation of fire was again upon Olympia. A mere glance at the eastern horizon showed at once that it had already attained a frightful start upon the pipe-works and tank-factory, at the foot of Jefferson street. The firemen, as usual were quick to respond to the call, but no human effort could vie with a combination of the forces of nature that was presented at the disaster.

Wonder it is that with the volume of flame and intensity of the heat when the hose had been laid, that our valiant firemen succeeded in keeping it within the bounds of the property affected, when the fire spread a distance of many blocks in several directions from the flying cinders. The Olympia Door Works a few yards to the west, and Richardson's shingle mill, a block away, and the latter was directly in line for a time of the prevailing air current, but these businesses were saved by the heroic efforts of the fire fighters with scarcely a char.

Some idea of the intensity of the heat may be derived from the fact that cedar bolts were set afire in the East bay half a block distant and the boom logs were burned, allowing bolts to drift away. Much of the heat was, however, carried into the air, which was blowing to the southeast, hurling high in mid-air sparks and cinders that fell upon and ignited several buildings on the eastern waterfront as well as along the course of 4th Avenue to the top of the hill and beyond the length of the car line.

The tar used for pipe-coating, a large supply of which was kept in tanks, was a constant menace to life besides affording quick fuel for the flames. Occasionally one of these tanks would explode, scattering its inflammable contents. A head of a cask struck a telegraph pole and was bent over by the force of its flight. Three cars loaded with pipe were consumed, and the remaining cars were moved by the evening train's locomotive which had passed at such and opportune time shortly after 6pm.

The general store of J. F. Bryan, on 4th Avenue and Eastside Street was the first to ignite, on Eastside, and although a good number of the fire fighters were transferred to that position, it was a mass of flames before the change could be made. J. W. Anselm owned one of the dwellings next to the store, and on the other side, the building was occupied by the families of Robert Wright and John Bailey. Both of these buildings were destroyed. The loss of the store's contents and the two dwellings was estimated at $5,500. The grocery building was owned by Celia Pix, of Tumwater, and was valued at $1,000. 

The residence of Rosalie Goldenberger, on the opposite side of the street, was also entirely consumed although most of her furniture was saved. She had just, that evening, paid the last installment of a mortgage on her premises and had proclaimed herself the happiest woman in Olympia, when this disaster fell upon her, destroying the products of much hard and ceaseless labor. The family was sheltered at night by kind neighbors and the furniture was temporarily housed in adjacent out-buildings.

Chris Donges was able to save all the furniture from his home near the Goldenberger house. It was uninjured except by removal, and it was thought some jewelry had been taken from a bureau drawer by some looter. The disaster threw about 80 people out of work, which was, of course, the most lamentable result, as the company was wealthy and did not feel the loss like those dependent upon daily wages for their subsistence. The loss of the Pipe and Tank companies was stated to be about $150,000, with insurance of about $50,000. The saving of some dynamos, material, and boilers enclosed in brick, was about $10,000.

The Morning Fire of 1910

On December 30, 1910, a fire broke out at Bolster & Barnes' grocery store. This was the second fire to have started in that building. The Good Templars had owned the building, but during the strenuous period of hard times and high taxation, it passed into the hands of the Knights of Pythias. The main occupant of the building had been for several years the store of Holster & Barnes that was fully stocked with groceries. The warehouse immediately south was also occupied by them.

Adjoining the store was the fire-barn, and it too had a close call, the roof being entirely consumed. On the west was Mr. Allen's barber shop, shoemakers Keecler and Alford, and the newly established glove factory, all of which were considerable losers in stock. Much of the grocery merchandise was carried from the building, but haste in removal of the items during a heavy rainstorm that fortunately began, damaged much of it. The rainstorm was regarded as a divine occurrence while the fire was at its peak. The rain had extinguished the sparks and cinders that were flying all around, which saved the rest of Olympia from going up in flames. The losses were estimated as follows; Bolster & Barnes $12,000, K. of P. $3,000 to building and $1,500 to the furnishings in the hall, the city $1,000, and others $1,500. It was said that an insurance total of $12,000 was carried.

The origin of the fire was a mystery, but from the fact of its repetition to the same victim, under the same conditions at the hour when most inhabitants are in slumber, had suggested that it might have been the act of arson.

The Swantown Fill

At the turn of the 20th century talk was beginning on the issue of filling in the East bay south of Olympia Avenue. The purpose for making the Swantown fill as it was called, was to fill in the tide flats, to connect the Eastside with the downtown and make the property available for commercial purposes. The undertaking appeared to be a laudable one and was generally encouraged and approved by the well disposed citizens of Olympia. The project was promoted and carried forward under plea and pretense of sanitation for the promotion of the public health. 

The Washington Standard said the tide-flats, with the ebb and flow of the tide over the same, twice in twenty-four hours, and with the natural and regular flow of the waters of Moxlie creek emptying into the bay, was not unsanitary in any sense.

The first proposal to fill in the bay was to wash down the east hill with high pressure water hoses. But on October 4, 1907, the Washington Standard said that a more sensible proposition had been submitted for the filling of the tide flats. The new proposal stated that instead of washing down the hill on Eastside, it was suggested that they dredge the mud flats down to deep water at a point near Mission park, and use the mud for the fill.

On Wednesday evening July 21, 1909, the Olympia City Council held a special meeting. After having gone through with some routine work, the body resolved itself into a committee of the whole with Councilman Swayne in the chair. The question of the Swantown fill was taken up, and documents, maps and City Surveyor's notations were referred to. The newspaper said that; "the majority seemed to be at sea in relation to the estimated cost of the so-called public improvement, with particular emphasis on the word 'public,' and also as to what particular property between the bay and Eastside street would be benefited."

These matters were left to the City Engineer and the Attorney to make the calculations, and afterwards, the lawyer was expected to draft a resolution to be presented at the next meeting. Councilman O'Connor wanted the property owners to get together first, organize and advise the Council.

On July 23, 1909, City Engineer E. L. Van Epps computed that the fill of the East bay would take 378,847 cubic yards of earth to raise it one foot above the city base-line, from the north side of State Avenue to the south side of Union Street. The cost of $0.125 cents per cubic yard was estimated by the government, and the total cost would be $47,355.88.

On August 13, 1909, a petition was circulating against the proposed Swantown fill. The paper said that the petition was growing like Jack's beanstalk. The petition was presented to the council at the next meeting, but the newspaper wasn't sure if the council would read the petition or place it under the table.

On September 20, 1909, another meeting was held about the Swantown fill. The city clerk read the protest that was signed by 161 Eastside property owners. Byron Millet made a short address saying that the real estate located in his neighborhood should not be assessed for the proposed improvement. He said that because there was no rule to value the benefits claimed that could be estimated in dollars and cents; he said it was a mere guessing proposition.

Millet also said that the western boundary line of improvement district No. 74 should stop at the alleys in the blocks lying between Jefferson and Adams streets, while the eastern boundary line extended to Central Street, and the advantages that were to be derived to real estate lying on both sides of the tide flats was equal. The President said the Council ought to adjourn to give the committee about five minutes to consider these protests, but on re-convening he observed the body claimed more time would be needed.

Some of the property owners living between Eastside and Central streets were talking about instituting injunctive proceedings, if the Council was bound to override their protests. Others thought that the Council would hesitate in the face of such a protest. At the next meeting, all the protests were placed "under the table" which caused vigorous protest by some of the Eastside residents. The President then called attention to the fact that after contracts were submitted, the bids would show exactly the cost, and could then be rejected if excessive.

On April 4, 1910, an amended Swantown fill proposition was placed before the City Council. It was now proposed to confine the improvement to the property in the fill and the real estate contiguous to the same. The trunk sewer and a storm drain complicated the matter somewhat.

On June 17, 1910, President Hughes, of the Puget Sound Bridge and Dredging Company, signed the contract for the big tideland fill. All preliminaries had been satisfactorily adjusted, and work by the dredger began as soon as the Water Street fill was completed. It was estimated that the Swantown fill would cost $61,000, and the cost of the Water Street improvement was $38,000. A channel near the Johns mill on Westside, was estimated to cost $6,000.

On June 24, 1910, the City Council decided to construct a wooden "box" sewer drain down the proposed Swantown fill. It was to be 6 X 10 feet and built of 3 inch plank. It was estimated to cost $19,000. This project ran into many problems and was abandoned, which caused undue hardships for the taxpayers. Today, Moxlie creek flows under the streets of Olympia through a pipe and empties into Budd's Inlet at the end Chestnut Street. When the fill was nearing completion, the standing water on top of the fill created a new problem. Many feared that the stagnant water would actually create health issue.

The Swantown fill would be completed in 1911 under much controversy and drama. There would be no dedication ceremony or celebrations.

On February 12, 1912, efforts were made to connect the separation of 5th Avenue across the Swantown fill. It took a considerable amount of work to divert the standing water in the fill to the box drain while it was still there.

On February 21, 1913, the old George Barnes residence was moved from its original location at 4th Avenue and Adams Street, and became the first building to be placed on the Swantown fill. The structure was purchased by A. T. Rabeck. 

4th Avenue and the Pacific Highway

The first concrete paving of the highway through Olympia was in the spring of 1913, when 4th Avenue between Jefferson and Eastside Street was paved with concrete. This was over the Swantown fill.

On June 2, 1915, the City Council passed an ordinance, providing for the improvement of 4th Avenue from Eastside street to the east city limits, by paving the road with concrete. On July 9, 1915, the contract for the paving of 4th Avenue to the city limits was awarded to the Independent Paving Company, who was the only bidder. The council then notified the Olympia Light & Power company to pave it's tracks on that street, under their franchise that was recently amended by the council.

On July 30, 1915, the Washington Standard said that 4th Avenue resembled Market Street in San Francisco on a Saturday afternoon, with its myriads of laborers and scores of teams employed laying water mains, sewer conduits and in grading the hill on Eastside. Besides these public improvements, the sound of the hammer and saw was heard the whole length of 4th Avenue with the building of new businesses and residences. They ended the article by saying that this scene was repetitious throughout the city.

In the spring of 1916, Thurston county received $31,000 from the state under the permanent highway act for the construction of a mile and a half of concrete roadway on the Pacific Highway from the eastern city limits of Olympia toward Lacey. This stretch of road was also known as Permanent Highway No. 2–B. The 1.5 mile of concrete pavement only cost $14,500.

The first Federal funding for the State of Washington under the Federal Aid Road Act of July 11, 1916, was for the construction of 3.52 miles of one-course concrete pavement on the Pacific Highway extending from the existing pavement east of Olympia toward Lacey. The work on Federal road project no. 1 began on June 21, 1916, and was completed on December 15, 1917. This made a continuous paved highway between Tumwater and Lacey.

On August 14, 1917, a motorist wrote in to the Oregonian about the condition of the Pacific Highway around Olympia; "A year ago the Pacific Highway east of Olympia was rebuilt from the ground up. This spring and summer it has been so rough, that it has tried the temper of everybody who rode over it.

On September 30, 1918, Federal road project no. 12 was completed. The construction was for 3.55 miles of 20 foot concrete roadway beginning at the end of the existing pavement in Lacey and extending northeasterly.

With the completion of this project at the beginning of 1919, there remained about one mile of unpaved highway between Olympia and Tacoma. Arrangements were made by Thurston county to close up this gap in 1920, with concrete pavement thereby giving the state a continuous paved road 122 miles in length from Chehalis to a point 4 miles north of Marysville, in Snohomish county.

Now that the highway had a good hard surface. Automobiles could now drive faster than ever before, which cut down transit times. This new fast pace brought with it new problems for the authorities. There are always those who value their fun more than the safety of others, and careless driving soon became a dangerous issue. On June 6, 1919, the Olympia police department had received numerous complaints from the residents of Eastside. They were saying that there were minor automobile accidents almost every day on the Pacific Highway due to speeding and reckless driving. This forced the police department to crack down on the reckless driving.

Today, after traveling down the east hill on 4th Avenue towards Main Street in Olympia, one would never guess they were crossing over the old East bay.

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I wish to salute all the journalists who wrote for the Washington Standard, as their writings made this compilation possible. I also salute the people who stood by a machine and scanned all newspapers to give the public the access to explore the writings.