Issue link: http://www.wacmagazine.com/i/1020464
8 WAC Magazine | wac.net The original portion of the WAC Clubhouse is now a National Historic Landmark. u Aer a decade on the list of Seattle His- toric Landmarks, the WAC Clubhouse is being recognized nationally. e original 21-story art deco high-rise was officially listed on the National Register of Histor- ic Places this past May. e designation follows the Clubhouse's recognition by the Washington Heritage Register as a historically significant site two months earlier. e recognition puts the WAC Clubhouse in good company. Other nationally designated historic landmarks in Seattle include the Panama Hotel in the International District; the Pioneer building, pergola and totem pole in Pioneer Square; and the Seattle Electric Company steam plant in Georgetown. e designation means the WAC may be eligible for certain tax provisions and federal historic preservation grants. "is recognition validates and sup- ports the WAC as a significant and historic structure and institution in this communi- ty," WAC President & CEO Chuck Nelson says. "It may also open up future avenues to help us make improvements to this beautiful clubhouse and club." e WAC Clubhouse opened in 1930 and was Seattle's third-tallest building at the time. A $2 million, four-story addi- tion was built in 1955, marking the Club's 25th anniversary and bringing a rooop tennis court to the Club's new south wing, two new elevators, a 400-person audito- rium (now the Noble Room), increased dining and lounge space, and two new basement levels. A second expansion in 1970 added eight stories to the south wing. While much of the Clubhouse inte- rior has changed since 1930, some areas have remained true to their original design, including Helene Madison Pool, the Crystal Ballroom, the Voogd Library, and the lobby's etched elevator doors and brass drinking fountain. Outside, the WAC's structure still includes its original vertical block façade and sculpted terra cotta ornamentation, including the sculpted WAC wings and large perched eagles. National landmark Hit musical Member podcast Club rivalry First Take One for the books WAC Clubhouse listed on National Register of Historic Places