Seattle was once proud to claim the finest underground bathroom in the country. What remains today is the iconic covering over that “comfort station” built in 1909. First and Yesler was considered the hub of the town and the underground restroom was a welcome addition to the area. It was sealed in 1940.

Ventilating columns

Mens’ entrance Mens’ pay room

Toilets under key

Mens ̓free roomWomens’ entrance

Ventilating column

White tile walls

Terrazzo floor

WHAT’S UNDER THE IRON PERGOLA

Stall doorsMahogany wood with brass fixtures.

Stall dividersSlabs of gray-streaked white Alaskan marble mounted on nickel-plated brass legs

HeatSteam is piped into this space and heats the bathroom through grates along the floor.

Shine and caretakers roomsThe ante-rooms of the two sections offer shoeshines, toilet supplies, and cigars in the men’s section. Shoeshines, 10¢; towel and soap, 2¢; closet, towel, and soap, 5¢.

VentilationEvery toilet is ventilated from beneath the seat by pipes connected to four ventilating columns above ground. These columns remain today as light posts.