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King County Washington home

King County Archives

We preserve and provide access to King County government records of enduring historical value. Government records are essential for increasing government transparency and protecting the rights of all people. Records in our care range from County legislation, executive orders, historical photographs, agency reports, historical maps, and recorded real estate documents.

Archives à la Carte

 

Curious about what an archives is or what historical government records look like? This is your chance to find out! Archives staff have put together a “menu” of fascinating topics featuring some of our most unique records. Pick your favorites and book a time to see them in person.

When: October 13–23, weekdays (registration required)

Time: Reserve a time online

Where: King County Archives, 1215 E. Fir St., Seattle

Who: Free and open to the public

Make Your Own Zine

 

Create your own zine with help from Seattle-area archivists! Zines are small, self made booklets filled with drawings, writing, or cut and paste images from magazines, posters, books, and more. No experience needed—we’ll bring the supplies, you bring the creativity.

When: October 30, 2:30–5pm (registration required)

Where: *The Seattle Public Library, Douglass-Truth Branch
2300 E. Yesler Way, Seattle

Who: Free and open to the public. Sign up today!

*This event is NOT hosted, sponsored, or endorsed by The Seattle Public Library.

Rise and Fall of the Kingdome Exhibit

Seattle's Kingdome stadium at sunset

Kingdome stadium at sunset, Series 1608, Box 4, folder 5, Department of Stadium Administration photographs, King County Archives, Seattle, WA.

 

Stop by the Customer Service Center at the King Street Center and explore a pop-up exhibit about the Kingdome, King County’s first multi-purpose stadium. Learn why it was built, what happened there, and what led to its demolition. The exhibit includes historic photos from events like Seahawks games and a Rolling Stones concert, plus images of the stadium’s construction and its dramatic implosion.

When: October 5–31, weekdays, 8:30am–4pm

Where: 2nd floor, King Street Center, 201 S. Jackson St., Seattle

Who: Free and open to the public; no registration needed

 

New to archives? You’re welcome here! Archives are for everyone, and Archives Month is a great time to explore historical government records and discover what the past can teach us.

Order recorded property documents

King County Archives holds historical recorded documents dated from 1853 to July 31, 1991. Examples include deeds, mortgages, reconveyances, easements, short plats, leases, and liens.


Access the Order Form

Topic Cards

FAQ

Explore frequently asked questions and answers about King County Archives.

Online Exhibits

Browse exhibits of archival records that highlight different aspects of King County history.

Records at Other Agencies

Information about records that aren't held by King County Archives and where to find them.

Research Guides

Guides to Archives records and other resources to help you find information on a specific topic.

Contact

206-263-2480
TTY Relay 711

archives@kingcounty.gov

1215 E. Fir St.
Seattle, WA 98122

Connect

Hours

Phone / Email customer service hours
Monday - Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Walk-in lobby hours
Tuesday and Wednesday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Research Room hours
By appointment only