Beyond Acknowledgment: Indigenous Wallingford Futures
A research initiative centering Indigenous histories and community futures
Project Mission
For years, Historic Wallingford has focused on the neighborhood’s history from the 1890s forward. But Wallingford’s story begins thousands of years earlier. This project doesn’t just add Indigenous history to our narrative. It roots that history at the center.
We’re partnering with Indigenous scholars, community members, and researchers to explore Indigenous presence in Wallingford across time – from ancestral stewardship through movements of resistance and resilience to present-day community and future possibilities.
Lake Union with early European-American development. Courtesy of MOHAI.
How This Will Unfold
Phase 1: Community Engagement
Launching the project with our community, inviting input on what this research should explore and accomplish.
Phase 2: Listening & Research
Community listening sessions alongside archival and academic research led by Indigenous scholars and UW graduate students.
Phase 3: Pause & Assess
Taking time to evaluate what we’ve learned and determine the most meaningful way to share this work with the community.
Phase 4: Public Scholarship
Possible outputs include walking tours, art installations, educational curriculum, policy briefs, or community programs. The research will guide us.
Lake Union with early European-American development. Courtesy of MOHAI.
The Western Mill Company’s building at Lake Union’s southern shore, 1885. Courtesy of Washington State Digital Archives.
Research Partners
Dr. Alexandra Meany, bringing expertise in Indigenous cities and public scholarship research
UW American Indian Studies Program, providing graduate student researchers and academic collaboration
Wallingford Community Members, sharing knowledge, oral histories, and lived experiences
Historic Wallingford, coordinating the project with community accountability
Chief Cheshiahud taking travelers across Portage Bay in his canoe, 1885. Courtesy of University of Washington Digital Collections.
Chief Cheshiahud and his wife Tleebuleetsa pictured at their cabin in 1904. Courtesy of MOHAI.
Join This Work
Share Your Story
Have knowledge about Indigenous presence in Wallingford? We want to hear from you.
Volunteer
Help with research, community events, or project coordination. Volunteer Opportunities coming soon!
Stay Updated
Follow project developments through our newsletter and social media.
Support This Research
This project requires resources for scholar compensation, graduate student research assistance, archival access, and community engagement. Your support makes this work possible.
Historic Wallingford is a 501(c)(3) organization. Your donation is tax-deductible.
Why Historic Wallingford?
Since 2018, we’ve built trust, preserved stories, and engaged our community. With strong partnerships, proven leadership, and a commitment to ethical storytelling, we’re ready to lead this work.
By rooting Indigenous history at the heart of Wallingford’s story, we honor generations of stewardship and ensure that Indigenous voices are not just acknowledged but centered in Wallingford’s future.