Welcome to The Seattle Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Upcoming Seattle Kraken home games

• A deep-dive into the life of Asa Mercer

• Local tech startups secure millions in venture capital funding

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“The only person you should try to be better than is the person you were yesterday.”

- Matt Haig

Trivia

Here is your trivia question of the week. The answer will be shown in next week’s newsletter. Which do you think it is? No cheating!

Which annual event in Seattle is famous for its large parade, specialty foods, and cultural displays celebrating the arrival of spring?

A) Bumbershoot

B) Seattle International Film Festival

C) Northwest Folklife Festival

D) Skagit Valley Tulip Festival

Answer to Last Week Trivia: The Seattle neighborhood known for its vibrant music scene and often associated with the birth of grunge music is B) Belltown.

News

💼 Business

Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell announces plans to significantly revise a comprehensive bank regulatory proposal by the end of the year. (link)

Marchex is set to report its Fourth Quarter 2023 results on Thursday, March 14, 2024. (link)

Seattle Business Magazine and Best Companies Group honor BDR for its exceptional workplace environment and company culture. (link)

🏒 Sports

Shannon Drayer provides insights on Logan Gilbert's challenging performance, alongside offensive standouts, during the Seattle Mariners' recent split-squad games. (link)

Komo sheds light on why this month stands out as potentially one of the most consequential periods in Seattle sports history. (link)

University of Washington Huskies basketball team clinches spot in Pac-12 tournament with decisive win. (link)

🏦 Finance

Local tech startups secure millions in venture capital funding, signaling continued growth in Seattle's tech sector. (link)

Bank of Seattle announces expansion of branch network in suburban areas to meet growing demand for financial services. (link)

Upcoming Events

Here are some events that are happening in our city this week. There is a good mix between sports, entertainment, conferences, concerts, and more.

Sports

🏒 Seattle Kraken vs. Vegas Golden Knights
Climate Pledge Arena, Seattle
Tuesday, Mar. 12th | 7:00 PM | (More Info)

🏒 Seattle Kraken vs. Nashville Predators
Climate Pledge Arena, Seattle
Saturday, Mar. 16th | 7:00 PM | (More Info) 

🏒 Seattle Kraken vs. Washington Capitals
Climate Pledge Arena, Seattle
Thursday, Mar. 14th | 7:00 PM | (More Info)

Music & Concerts

🎶 Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater
Paramount Theatre - Seattle, Seattle
Mar. 15th-17th | 2:00 PM | (More Info)

Family Friendly events:

🎉 Dancing with the Stars Live
Paramount Theatre, Seattle
Monday, Mar. 11th | 8:00 PM | (More Info)

🍷 Pacific Standard Gourmet Party
Pier 62, Seattle Waterfront
Thursday, Mar. 14th | 7:00 PM (VIP 6:00 PM) | (More Info)

Image of the Week

Every week, I have a habit of making some AI art about our city.

This week, I typed in “Seattle streets bustling with holographic advertisements” and this is what I got.

Let me know what ideas you have for this. I really enjoy making these types of photos.

Seattle Historical Events

Alaska-Yukon-Pacific Exposition (1909)

The Alaska-Yukon-Pacific Exposition, held in 1909, was a world's fair that marked a pivotal moment in Seattle's history, underscoring the city's burgeoning growth and its deepening connections with the Pacific Rim and beyond. Taking place on the grounds of what is now the University of Washington, this exposition was strategically designed to showcase the economic potential and cultural vibrancy of Seattle and the Pacific Northwest, using the allure of the exotic and the promise of economic prosperity to draw visitors and investors alike. Themed exhibitions and pavilions highlighted the region's resources, innovations, and connections with Asia and the Pacific, effectively advertising Seattle as a gateway for trade and exchange.

The fair's layout and attractions were a testament to the ambitions of its organizers and the city itself. Visitors were treated to a wide array of exhibits, ranging from technological innovations and natural resources to ethnographic displays and art. The exposition's buildings, such as the iconic Alaska Building and the Fine Arts Pavilion, were designed in an eclectic mix of architectural styles that underscored the international flavor of the event. The fairgrounds also featured picturesque landscapes, gardens, and water features, providing a stunning backdrop to the educational and entertaining displays. Beyond the exhibits, the A-Y-P Exposition hosted a variety of events and performances, including music concerts, lectures, and cultural celebrations, further enriching the visitor experience.

In retrospect, the Alaska-Yukon-Pacific Exposition played a significant role in shaping Seattle's identity and trajectory. It not only highlighted the city's economic and cultural aspirations at the start of the 20th century but also served as a catalyst for development, including the expansion of the University of Washington campus. The exposition's success in drawing over 3.7 million visitors underscored Seattle's potential as a major urban center and a hub for Pacific trade. The legacy of the A-Y-P Exposition continues to be felt in Seattle's urban fabric and its position in the Pacific Rim's network of cities, symbolizing a moment when Seattle presented itself to the world and embraced its future as a global city.

Famous People From Seattle

Asa Mercer (1839–1917)

Asa Mercer, an innovative and visionary figure, played a pivotal role in shaping the early development and social dynamics of Seattle, Washington. His remarkable journey from educator to a key architect of Seattle’s demographic structure through the introduction of the "Mercer Girls" showcases his dedication to fostering community growth and balance.

Early Years and Education (1839-1859)

Born into the rural heartland of Franklin, New Hampshire, Asa Mercer grew up understanding the value of education and hard work. Early in his life, Mercer displayed a penchant for learning and an eagerness to seek opportunities far beyond his New England roots. This thirst for adventure led him on a path towards the burgeoning communities of the Pacific Northwest.

Journey to Washington Territory (1860-1862)

In his early twenties, Mercer ventured westward, seeking new horizons and opportunities. His arrival in the Washington Territory signaled the beginning of a lifelong commitment to the region's development. Mercer quickly recognized the need for structured education and became an advocate for the establishment of schools and institutions that would cater to the young territory's growing population.

Founding of the University of Washington (1863-1864)

Among Mercer's most enduring legacies was his instrumental role in founding the Territorial University of Washington in 1861, now known as the University of Washington. Serving as both a teacher and the institution's first president, Mercer dedicated himself to the enlightenment and education of his adopted community, laying down the intellectual foundations of the modern city of Seattle.

The Mercer Girls Project (1864-1866)

Aware of the gender imbalance in the Washington Territory, Mercer conceived a bold plan to recruit young, educated women from the Eastern United States. In 1864, he traveled back to the East Coast and, through persuasive oratory and promises of employment and potential marriage, convinced a group of women to relocate to Seattle. This initiative not only sought to correct the demographic skew but also to elevate the social fabric of the community.

Impact on Seattle's Community and Culture (1866-1870)

The arrival of the "Mercer Girls" marked a significant turn in Seattle's demographic and cultural landscape. The infusion of these women into the community brought new energy and diversity, enabling the establishment of schools, libraries, and cultural institutions. Mercer's vision thus catalyzed a transformation in Seattle’s social dynamics, fostering a more balanced and refined pioneer society.

Later Life and Ventures (1870-1890)

Following the success of the Mercer Girls project, Asa Mercer pursued other ventures, including farming and involvement in local politics. Despite facing financial and personal challenges, his contributions to Seattle's early development remained undisputed. Mercer's resilience and adaptability were hallmark traits, underscoring his legacy as a pioneer of social and educational advancement.

Final Years and Reflections (1890-1917)

As the turn of the century approached, Mercer continued to reflect on his significant contributions to the Pacific Northwest. His later years were marked by a sense of fulfillment from seeing Seattle grow from a fledgling community into a bustling urban center. Before his passing in 1917, Mercer witnessed the fruits of his labor, with his actions leaving an indelible mark on the city's history.

Key Achievements:

• Pioneered the establishment of the Territorial University of Washington, contributing significantly to higher education in the Pacific Northwest.

• Initiated the “Mercer Girls” project, addressing the gender imbalance in Seattle and promoting the growth of the community’s social and cultural dimensions.

• Played a crucial role in the early educational development of Seattle, advocating for the foundation of schools and libraries.

• Engaged in various civic duties and business ventures, demonstrating a lifelong commitment to the prosperity and welfare of Seattle.

Asa Mercer's story is a testament to the power of vision, determination, and community-focused action. Through his foundational role in the establishment of the University of Washington and the innovative "Mercer Girls" project, Mercer significantly shaped the demographic and intellectual growth of Seattle. His legacy endures as a beacon of pioneering spirit and commitment to societal advancement, leaving an everlasting impact on the Pacific Northwest.

Connect With Me

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I would love to hear from you. Don’t be shy.

-Matthew Larsen

Follow me on Instagram: https://instagram.com/matthewblarsen

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