VintageSeattle.org

As the first term of Greg Nickels slowly winds to a close, let’s look back 80+ years to the short tenure of Seattle Mayor Ole Hanson (1874-1940). Though mayor for just two years, Hanson is one of the most well known in the long line of Seattle mayors mostly because of his involvement in the Seattle General Strike of 1919. This was one of the first and most significant strikes in the United States. Known for his fiery rhetoric, he came out on the offensive in the Seattle newspapers: “The time has come for every person in Seattle to show his Americanism. Go about your daily duties without fear. We will see to it that you have food, transportation, water, light, gas, and all necessities. The anarchists in this community shall not rule its affairs. All persons violating the laws will be dealt with summarily.” In just days the strike was over and Hanson had become somewhat of a national celebrity. Whether he deserved the credit for the end of the strike or not, Hanson remains one of Seattle’s political icons. Here is his 1919-era portrait. Notice the name of the portrait studio (Martin, Spokane) has been “photoshopped” out. Click on the image for a high-res version.

Mayor of Seattle Ole Hanson, head-and-shoulders portrait, facing slightly left. Martin, Spokane. Circa 1919. Image courtesy Library of Congress, U.S. Copyright Office.

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