Butterworth Building
historic place
The Butterworth Building is a historic place in Seattle, Washington, in King County. It was erected in 1903, designed by architect John Graham, Sr. This structure was Seattle's first purpose-built mortuary, originally housing Butterworth & Sons. It notably featured the first elevator on the West Coast of the United States, specifically for transporting bodies. Contemporary accounts from 1904 described it as "the most complete establishment of its kind in the United States." Due to a steep hill, the building presents three stories on First Avenue and five on Post Alley. Its interior showcases stained mahogany wood, art glass, and ornamental plaster. The Butterworth Building was listed on the National Register of Historic Places on May 14, 1971. This site is historically significant for its pioneering role in mortuary services and its distinctive architecture.