Colman Building

The Colman Building stretches across half a block along First Avenue between Marion and Columbia Streets, rising six stories with a red brick exterior and marble trim. The long facade shows clear organization, with different floors featuring varying window styles and decorative details.

Construction began in 1889 and finished in 1906, commissioned by Scottish immigrant James Murray Colman who helped advance Seattle's early growth. Its completion marked an important point in reshaping the city's business district.

The building displays architectural influences from different periods, with lower floors showing Victorian elements and upper stories reflecting Chicago School features that shaped Seattle's early look. This mix shows how the city's building style evolved during the years around 1900.

The building operates as a modern office building with commercial spaces in the heart of Seattle's Pioneer Square, near the waterfront area. Its location along First Avenue offers easy orientation and access to other historic sites nearby.

A ship called the Windward is believed to remain buried beneath the building's foundation after Colman salvaged it at this location. The vessel may have been sealed as part of the construction project and remains a hidden part of local history.