Seattle: Not Named After a Fish (Although There Are Some Really Good Ones Here)
So, you're curious about the Emerald City's name, huh? Forget what you think you know about scraping gum off space needles (that's a whole other story), because Seattle's origin story is way cooler (and involves a real live person, not a fictional sea creature).
Drumroll please... Seattle is named after Chief Seattle, a prominent figure in the Duwamish and Suquamish tribes who lived in the area during the 19th century. Yes, you read that right, folks. This bustling metropolis is the only major city in the US named after a Native American leader. Pretty darn cool, right?
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| What is Seattle Named After |
Chief vs. Fish: A Tale of Two Names
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Now, before you go commenting on Facebook that Seattle looks suspiciously fish-shaped (it kinda does, we won't argue), there was some confusion back in the day. See, "Seattle" is actually an anglicized version of Chief Seattle's name, which was originally si?a? (pronounced See-ahlth) in his native Lushootseed language.
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Over time, the pronunciation got a little muddled, and some folks started thinking the city was named after a type of fish (maybe a particularly grumpy salmon?). But nope! It's all about honoring a respected leader who played a role in the city's early history.
Fun fact: Chief Seattle is also famous for a powerful speech he supposedly gave about protecting the environment and respecting Native American land rights. While the historical accuracy of the speech itself is debated, the message is pretty darn inspiring.
So, next time you're chowing down on some fresh-caught salmon at Pike Place Market, remember – you're not just in a city with a great food scene, you're in a place steeped in history and named after a pretty awesome dude (or should we say, chief).
How-To Seattle: Frequently Asked Questions
- How to pronounce "Seattle" like a local? - Aim for "See-AH-tul," not "See-AT-tul." Trust us, it sounds way cooler.
- How to avoid the crowds at Pike Place Market? - Head there early in the morning, or explore the lesser-known markets like the Fremont Sunday Market.
- How to dress for Seattle weather? - Layers are your friend! It might rain, it might be sunny, who knows? But with layers, you'll be prepared for anything.
- How to find the best coffee in Seattle? - There's a good chance there's a fantastic coffee shop on every corner. Explore and find your own favorite!
- How to experience the best of Seattle? - Get out and explore! Hike in the mountains, kayak in the harbor, or just wander around and soak up the city's unique vibe.
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