The intersection of Fourth and Westlake Avenues, ca. 1909

In the early 1900s, Westlake Avenue ran from Lake Union through what is now Westlake Park in downtown Seattle. Fourth Avenue ran up a steep hill, but it was later regraded to the same level as Westlake. The Plaza Hotel stood at the intersection of Fourth Avenue and Westlake.This photo, probably taken in 1909, shows the intersection of Fourth and Westlake Avenues at the Plaza Hotel. There were few automobiles at that time, but the scene is busy with pedestrians, carts, wagons, and streetcars. An oyster bar, a cafe, several hotels, and other businesses line the streets. Canvas awnings shade the sidewalk, and two street vendors are sheltered by Bon Marche umbrellas.