History

1890

1892 — The Bureau of Associated Charities of Seattle is formed to centralize and coordinate charitable giving to "the worthy poor" throughout the city.
1896 — The original Bureau closes (insecure funding). The need remains and the work is quickly reorganized as the Charity Organization Society of Seattle with support from local churches. Typical work: Volunteer "friendly visitors," often middle- and upper-class women, visit applicants in their homes to determine needs and make recommendations and referrals. Some direct financial and tangible support.

Economic panic leads to high levels of unemployment.
Boom years while Seattle is the main departure point for the Alaska Gold Rush.
First hydroelectric power plant in Washington State completed at Snoqualmie Falls.