Historic First Hill: Art, Architecture & Design
Take a journey through historic First Hill, beginning at the turn of the 20th century when the museum's namesakes Charles and Emma Frye began collecting and showcasing art in their home. Discover how art, architecture, and design converged to create stunning interior spaces, inspire dramatic art-viewing experiences, and shape the character of a neighborhood.
Begin the evening with a lively discussion in Frye Salon with Director & Curator of Collections, Faith Brower, who will guide you through the history of the Founding Collection and share stories behind some notable works on display.
Next, embark on a brief walking tour of First Hill with Seattle Architecture Foundation tour guides, exploring the neighborhood’s early developments and evolving character. Then enjoy a light reception and guided tour of Stimson-Green Mansion, home of the Washington Trust for Historic Preservation and a contemporary of the Fryes’ original residence.
The Seattle Architecture Foundation (SAF) enhances the public’s awareness of and engagement with the built environment. Through tours, lectures, workshops, exhibits, and more, SAF connects people with the architecture, design, and history of Seattle and empowers residents to improve our beautiful city.
The Washington Trust for Historic Preservation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to saving the places that matter in Washington State and to promoting sustainable and economically viable communities through historic preservation. They are Washington’s only statewide nonprofit advocacy organization working to build a collective ethic that preserves historic places through education, collaboration, and stewardship.
Historic First Hill: Art, Architecture & Design
From left: East and south walls of Frye Art Gallery, 722 Ninth Avenue, Seattle, illustrated on April 29, 1917, in the Seattle Sunday Times (Beloved, p.36). Frye Art Museum Archive; Exterior of the Stimson-Green Mansion, built in 1901 by prominent 20th-century architect Kirtland Cutter. Photo credit: Nathan Tain
September 25, 2025
6–9 pm
704 Terry Avenue
Seattle, WA 98104