Photos of Camille, Daniel (and family and friends)

As I remodel and repair the house, I discover more about it.  My current understanding is that the front part of this house stood on this lot in 1892 (it was shown on the Sanford Fire Insurance maps of that date), but likely was constructed on this lot in the previous decade.  When remodeling the downstairs bath I found a Canadian prairies newspaper dated 1886 stuffed in the wall.  I think it was a time capsule for me to find, or perhaps just convenient insulation.

Yesterday, in replacing some split siding near the front door, I found these two items.  I believe the first is our original street address.  Our street was named North St before annexation of Ballard by Seattle.  I think the number is likely our house number, as 17th Ave (the nearest cross street to the east) was 1st Ave in the old system.

121 North Street (old Ballard address)

121 North Street (old Ballard address)

Then, to the left of the front door, I found this.  I think it is a man’s name and address.  I’m guessing that he was the builder (or framer) and that the address listed is his.  I only use male pronouns, because it was likely in 1886 that only men built homes.  The writing is cursive, though, and implies some level of literacy.

Neuman

JB Neuman - 1003 2d Ave

I love these discoveries.  They are treasure beneath the surface.  It’s like an archeological dig, right here in Ballard.