Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Georgetown Steam Plant is a reminder of the “era of electrification” when industry was first attracted to Seattle by its inexpensive hydroelectric power and electric trolley car system. It is a National Historic Landmark, as well as a Historic Mechanical Engineering Landmark and a Seattle Landmark. Once at the center of the rapidly growing Georgetown neighborhood south of SODO, the Steam Plant was built by the Seattle Electric Company in 1906-1907 on 18 acres of land along the Duwamish River. The plant represents several important developments. Vertical Curtis turbines—among the last of their kind left in situ in the U.S. along with most of the original ancillary equipment. An early example of reinforced concrete construction using the “fast track”, process which emphasized the value and efficiency of reinforced concrete over structural steel. And a significant example of Neo-Classical architecture. The plant’s two vertical Curtis Turbines helped establish the steam turbine as capable of producing large amounts of power more cheaply and efficiently than other generators at the time. You can take a virtual tour of the Georgetown Steam Plant, available on their website. Free public open houses on 2nd Saturday from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm, with free guided tours at 11:00 am and 1:00 pm. Admission is free. No reservations required. More info: Georgetown Steam Plant – City Light | seattle.gov
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