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The Central Area / Central District (“CD”) Neighborhood
The Central District is a unique neighborhood in Seattle. It is the area of town that has been home to many different cultures, communities, and people for over 100 years. The Central Area has played an essential role in shaping Seattle’s values and culture as it continues to do so today.
The Central District Neighborhood is located in the heart of Seattle. Most residents find their roots here because they are drawn to the peace and community of this neighborhood. Some residents consider the Central District a “ghetto,” while others find it serene and lovely. The truth is that both perspectives have their merits, depending on who you ask.
The Central Area Neighborhood began as a home for many African Americans in Seattle during segregation times when they were not allowed to live anywhere else throughout the city. In its early years, there were many churches and establishments such as restaurants, cafes‚ barber shops, beauty salons, etc., which catered specifically to African American communities from around Seattle because other neighborhoods did not welcome them.
Today’s Central District continues a vital legacy: providing housing and social services for those displaced by the high cost of living in Seattle. The area has become a haven for those seeking affordable housing and an increasing number of artists and musicians moving to this dynamic neighborhood from around the country.
About the Central District Neighborhood
The Central Area / Central District neighborhood is located in Seattle, Washington. This area has a population of over 40,000 residents and includes the diverse business district around 23rd Avenue East. The history of this city neighborhood goes back to 1890 when it was initially platted by Charles D. McGilvra, who envisioned his country estate here at Madison Street and 23rd Avenue called Madison Park after his hometown in New York State (Madison). It wasn’t until 1902 that these lands would be broken up into residential lots for sale or rent, with many different styles of homes built, including Queen Anne Style architecture famous throughout Seattle during this period. Over one-third of the original historic properties are still standing today, making this an attractive location for people to live, work and play.
It has been renamed from its former name as Capitol Hill or “Capitol Hill,” designated by the City Council on March 14, 1869. The boundaries are generally Pine Street at Aloha street north to around 25th Avenue and from I-90 to 14th Avenue East.
The Central Area / Central District Neighborhood has a unique history. It was once the heart of Seattle, where all the major institutions were located before moving further north and south. The neighborhood remains home to many important community institutions such as Garfield High School, Holy Names Academy, Yesler Terrace Community Center & Pool, Mount Zion Baptist Church, and more. Many churches that have stood for decades are still standing, including Christ Our Savior Orthodox Cathedral, which is on its second building since its establishment in 1889 by Russian immigrants who came originally from Alaska. Some say this area may be one of only two places in America to visit an orthodox cathedral inside a public housing project! What makes this Neighborhood unique is that it has both a strong history and community, as well as an exciting future.
However, the Central Area / Central District Neighborhood is in transition. Many changes are taking place, such as gentrification and new opportunities for residents to improve their lives through housing, employment & workforce programs. The neighborhood was historically home to a thriving African-American community that has been affected by the same economic forces acting every low-income community of color across America: racial discrimination in lending practices, loss of industrial jobs due to globalization & technological change causing displacement from neighborhoods where they have lived for generations. In addition, crime rates remain high even though the overall violent crime has dropped dramatically since 1993 when over 450 homicides per year. This led some people to start moving out or avoiding this Neighborhood altogether despite being centrally located near Downtown & Capitol Hill.
Today’s Central District continues a vital legacy: providing affordable housing and social services for those displaced by the high cost of living in Seattle. The area has become a haven for those seeking affordable housing and an increasing number of artists and musicians moving to this dynamic neighborhood from around the country.
Facts about the Central District Neighborhood
This neighborhood is named for its centrality in the city. The Central Area / Central District is also known as the “Black Community,” but today, it has a growing Asian and Latino population alongside African American influence.
The Central Area / Central District neighborhood is also known as the Central District, CD Seattle, or CD. It is a neighborhood located in the center of King County. The Central Area / Central District Neighborhood occupies over 100 square blocks and includes Madison Valley to the north, Madrona to the west, and Leschi to the south.
The Central Area / Central District neighborhood is a primarily residential area with a diverse population. It is home to the Northwest African American Museum, Wing Luke Asian Art Museum, and Seattle University.
The Central Area / Central District is a neighborhood with many different architectural styles, including Craftsman, Victorian, and Tudor. There are also many colorful murals decorating the area. The Central Area / Central District neighborhood is known for its restaurants, cafes, and coffee shops frequented by many Seattleites.
The neighborhood is known for being the center of Seattle’s African-American community. It has a rich history, including being home to Seattle’s first Black newspaper. At over 50% of black residents of all ages, it’s one of America’s most concentrated areas for African Americans. It’s home to many famous authors and musicians! It was named after Dr. Daniel Bagley, one of Seattle’s first doctors, and led the City Council during its early years.
The Central Area / Central District has many parks. It has the oldest park in Seattle, Judkins Park; it was named after Dr. David Judson, who opened a hospital downtown Seattle in 1897. It’s also home to Southside Commons Park, which is a public art park.
The Central Area / Central District has many popular Seattle attractions, such as the Museum of African American History and Culture, Northwest African American Museum, and Langston Hughes Performing Arts Institute.
In the 1870s, Washington was one of only three states where African Americans could not vote. This changed when Dr. Daniel Bagley was elected to the Seattle City Council in 1876, making him Washington’s first black councilman and one of the first African-American officials in the United States.
The Central Area / Central District is home to many African American authors like Sherman Alexie and Quincy Troupe. It was also once home to jazz greats like Quincy Jones and Jimi Hendrix before moving on to other downtown Seattle areas.
Activities in Central District Neighborhood
The Central Area / Central District neighborhood has many events during different times of year that may interest visitors. Many families find it easy to spend a day with children exploring this unique city space. The Seattle Children’s Museum is always a great place to visit with children. It has many interactive activities for kids no matter their age group. Also, if you are looking for something educational yet fun, why not go to the Pacific Science Center. This museum has tons of activities for anyone who loves science and learning! There is even a planetarium that can take you on an educational journey to see the stars.
This part of town used to have jazz legends living there, but today growing Asian and Latino populations also call it home. If you visit this area in the city, you will see how diverse it has become over time, along with many family-friendly activities that can entertain even small children.
If you love history, visiting historical museums can help paint a picture of how life used to be in the past. Some of the top museums in this area include, but are not limited to: Duwamish Longhouse and Cultural Center or Wing Luke Museum are both great places to visit.
Little Uncle is a fantastic place for Thai food and offers dishes at low prices. Suppose you are looking for something a bit more filling and hearty, head over to Paseo Caribbean Food. This place has a fantastic reputation and is a must-try for anyone looking to experience fantastic food. There are many other options available in this neighborhood, including The Blue Moon Burgers, which is known for its delicious burgers and sandwiches.
Waterfall Garden Park and Seattle Center are both great places for families to visit. Both of these parks have a lot going on, from festivals, outdoor concerts, food trucks, or just about anything else you can think of. There is always something happening at this park in the summer months, so it is best not to miss out!
Community Events in Central District Neighborhood
The Central Area / Central District Neighborhood is a community rich in history. It has several activities going on all year round. Some of the top events held here include, but are not limited to :
The Annual Easter Egg Hunt for children up through age 12 is held every Saturday before Easter. The Capitol Hill Block Party is an award-winning music festival that features both local and national acts, which takes place in July towards the end of each summer.
The Central Area / Central District Neighborhood Farmer’s Market is held every Saturday, year-round, except the winter months. The Capitol Hill Art Walk happens in early May and showcases artwork from local artists throughout 21 venues. If you are looking for something fun to do on the weekends, this is a great way to enjoy free art and stroll through the neighborhood.
The Capitol Hill Classic Car Show happens every year. If you love vintage cars, then be sure not to miss out on one of Seattle’s most exciting events during summertime! It will give people who love collecting and restoring vintage cars the chance to show off their work. This is an excellent place for families and friends to come together and enjoy the beautiful summer weather while exploring different types of vehicles.
The Seattle Design Festival is a week-long event that showcases and celebrates design in Seattle. Many significant events are going on all over the city when restaurants, bars, shops, and businesses open their doors to show off new up-and-coming designers!
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