Archives: Profiles

Two lily ponds flank the terrace along the west side of the Concourse.

Judge Thomas Burke was an important civic leader in Seattle.

The performing arts have been part of Volunteer Park’s history since the first concert grove was constructed in 1910.

John Charles Olmsted characterized Volunteer Park as a landscape park. This meant that it was primarily designed for people to enjoy the landscape. So how did the tennis courts come to be?

The Keeper’s Lodge, built in 1910, is a charming example of Craftsman architecture and is still used by Seattle Parks and Recreation for offices and crew quarters.

The shelter house is one of just a handful of Olmsted-designed structures still standing in Seattle parks.

Neighbors initially feared that the noise from the playground would be disruptive for adjacent homes along Federal Avenue, so the playground was relocated.

Though it has been substantially renovated over the years, the Volunteer Park Conservatory building retains its original appearance as a Victorian iron and glass conservatory.

The reservoir was already built when Olmsted was commissioned to design Volunteer Park. He immediately saw it as an asset.

The lawns create space for gatherings and recreation. On a sunny day, this lawn is full of picnickers, people playing Frisbee, and people walking their dogs.