Victory Heights

A Difficult Chapter in Housing History

Take a moment with one of the neighborhood's more uncomfortable stories. Here in Victory Heights, in 1923, the first known racial restrictive covenants in the modern Seattle area were written, deed clauses used to keep neighborhoods limited to white residents.

Developers turned to these covenants after a 1917 Supreme Court ruling barred cities from using ordinances to segregate neighborhoods. The Goodwin Company, which developed real estate in Victory Heights, first attached covenants to three of its tracts. As you explore, notice Goodwin Way NE, a local street that still carries the company's name.

Joining the City

Until 1954, Victory Heights sat outside the city limits. That year it was annexed to Seattle along with other parts of Lake City.

Parks and Green Space

Head first to Victory Heights Playground, the neighborhood's anchor park, a city park at 1737 NE 106th St. It makes an easy stop for families who live nearby and want a quick outing close to home.

From the playground, you are close to a chain of small green spaces named for Thornton Creek. Wander a little wider and you can find pocket-sized spots such as Virgil Flaim Park and Pinehurst Pocket Park. Check with Seattle Parks and Recreation for current amenities before you set out.

Market Days at the Lake City Farmers Market

Fresh produce is never far away. Stop by the Lake City Farmers Market, which sets up near NE 125th St and 28th Ave NE, with market days on Thursdays and Saturdays.

Because it is a seasonal market, days, hours and vendors can change. Confirm the current schedule with the market before you plan your trip.

Planning Your Visit

Give Victory Heights a slow afternoon rather than a packed itinerary. Start with a playground stop, add a market run, then drive or walk along Lake City Way NE, the old highway that gave the neighborhood its name.