Eagles Auditorium Building
historic place
The Eagles Auditorium Building, located in Seattle, Washington's King County, is recognized as a Historic Place. Construction on this significant structure began in 1924, with the building officially opening in 1925. It was erected by the Fraternal Order of Eagles, Seattle Aerie No. 1, which aimed to create the most splendid fraternal building in the country. Designed by architect Henry Bittman, the building is a notable example of Renaissance Revival style, characterized by its elaborate terra cotta ornamentation. A prominent feature is a large terra cotta eagle with a seven-foot wingspan, located above the main archway, with inscriptions reading "Seattle Aerie No. 1, Fraternal Order of Eagles" and "Eagles Auditorium." The Eagles Auditorium served as the lodge for Aerie No. 1 until August 1981. Beyond its fraternal purpose, the building became a significant cultural venue. It hosted R&B performances in the 1950s, followed by rock concerts from the mid-1960s to 1970, and later punk and new wave acts in the early 1980s. The building also played a role in civic history, notably hosting Martin Luther King, Jr. who spoke there on November 10, 1961. Rosa Parks and Emmett Till's mother also spoke at the venue. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places on July 14, 1983, the Eagles Auditorium Building continues its legacy. Today, it is known as Kreielsheimer Place and has been home to ACT Theatre since 1996, while also containing residential apartments. The Eagles Auditorium Building stands as a testament to Seattle's architectural and cultural development.