Alki was first called sbaqʷabqs. It means prairie in Lushootseed, the language of Coast Salish people. It describes how this place looked—grassy plains and scattered stands of fir trees. Settlers who accessed federal land grants arrived in 1851 and called this place “Alki.” Alki translates to “by and by” in Chinook Jargon, a trade language of the era. They envisioned a major city from this shore. Their arrival marked a turning point.
As Seattle grew, so did the Duwamish Peninsula – industry developed, waterways changed, and forests disappeared (almost). Newcomers arrived in waves and built homes, schools, businesses, and neighborhoods.
Beyond Alki highlights the significance of Alki Beach, shares stories from communities across the Duwamish Peninsula, incorporates new interactive experiences – visitors can listen to music from West Seattle’s past from an interactive music listening station – and highlights artifacts, including the recently acquired Rolf Neslund Memorial Shrine bust.
This exhibit is supported by generous sponsors and funders, including 4Culture, Nucor Steel, the Hugh and Jane Ferguson Foundation, Maritime Washington National Heritage Area, City of Seattle Office of Arts and Culture, the Norcliff Foundation, the West Seattle Garden Tour, Mechanics Bank, and the City of Seattle Department of Neighborhoods.
