July 1999 photo by David Bangs

Issaquah Visitor's Center: 155 NW Gilman Blvd, (425) 392-7024. See Map

Information Regarding Alexander House:

Once a familiar landmark on the east shore of Lake Sammamish, this house was built by Thomas and Caroline Alexander in 1902 on land which was known for most of the century as Alexander's Resort. Thomas Alexander had earlier been the "walking boss" (traveling construction supervisor) for the Seattle, Lakeshore and Eastern Railway.

In 1986, when the property was threatened by plans for a housing development (today's Eagle Ridge), Issaquah Historical Society volunteers, led by Greg Spranger, worked to save the house. Property owner Puget Power donated the house and assisted in the move to a temporary location.

The house was later moved to its current location, and restoration by local volunteers was completed in 1989, creating the new headquarters for the Issaquah Chamber of Commerce, and the Issaquah Visitors Center.

The Visitors Center features brochures and information about activities, recreation, entertainment and shopping in Issaquah and around the region. The center also provides information about lodging, restaurants, realtor listings, and services such as schools and daycares.

July 1986 Issaquah Press Photo
Members of the Issaquah Historical Society hope to make the historic Alexander farm house the flagship structure in a city heritage village.

September 1986 Photo by Peter Liddell / Seattle Times
Utility crews clear the way as the Thomas Alexander farmhouse moves south on East Lake Sammamish Parkway Southeast.

Expanded Future Possibilities

As of February 2000: The Chamber of Commerce is crammed for space in this 1,500 square foot two story house.  The City of Issaquah (which owns the building) and the Chamber have retained the Swanson Architectural Group to design a new wing addition which would approximately double the square footage of the building while preserving its Victorian character.

Courtesy Swanson Architectural Group,  provided Feb 2000
Model of current building as seen from Gilman Blvd.

Courtesy Swanson Architectural Group,  provided Feb 2000
Model of building with proposed additions.

News Articles

• Alexander house: Bed and breakfast 'flagship' needs a move (7/9/1986 - Issaquah Press article)
• From Lake Sammamish to Issaquah Historic, homeless house moves on Puget Power helps stave off the wrecker’s ball for landmark (9/25/1986 - Seattle Times article)

Related Web Sites

• Alexander Family History (Issaquah Press)
• Issaquah Chamber of Commerce
• City plans to expand historic home for chamber (June 1998 Issaquah Press Article)

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