Description

How one canal reshaped Seattles history, economy, and environment

Seattles waterways are central to the citys identity, and none more so than the Lake Washington Ship Canal and Ballard (Hiram M. Chittenden) Locks. Seattles Locks and Ship Canal: A History and Guide offers an accessible introduction to this engineering marvel and its ongoing significance. Adapted from the acclaimed Waterway, this portable edition distills decades of history into an engaging format ideal for both residents and visitors.

David B. Williams and Jennifer Ott chart the vision that drove the canals creation and the dramatic changes it brought to the citys economy, neighborhoods, and natural environment. Along the way, they highlight the political struggles, industrial ambitions, and ecological consequences that shaped one of Seattles defining projects.

Enhanced with a map of the locks and another featuring key sites along the ship canal, this edition doubles as both a history and a practical guide. It illuminates how the locks, once designed for commercial shipping, have evolved into one of Seattles most popular destinations, where recreational boats, salmon ladders, and historic structures draw crowds year-round.

Clear, informative, and visually rich, Seattles Locks and Ship Canal is both a primer on the citys past and a companion for exploring part of its present-day waterfront.

Author: David B. Williams,Jennifer Ott
Binding Type: Paperback
Publisher: University of Washington Press
Published: 03/10/2026
Pages: 184
ISBN: 9780295754949
Language: English