“`html
President of the University of Washington Robert J. Jones, writer Daniel James Brown, along with various members of the ASUW Shell House community, convened for a ceremonial groundbreaking at the historic edifice, which is in the final phases of adaptive reuse.
Covering roughly 12,000 square feet, the venerable ASUW Shell House rests just steps away from the northeast edge of the Montlake Cut and stands as a symbol of UW’s persistent ethos of community, success, and resilience. The refurbishment of the 107-year-old structure retains its spacious, hangar-style design and is enabled by public financing and private philanthropic contributions. The venue will accommodate up to 250 individuals and be accessible for both student and public activities — the culmination of eight years of effort and $22.5 million raised to prepare the iconic edifice for its next century.
The Shell House has fulfilled various roles throughout its history, most notably as the workshop of famed boat-builder George Pocock, who designed racing shells that propelled Washington Rowing to eight national championship victories, including the renowned team that clinched Olympic gold in 1936. It inspired Brown’s bestselling book and the film, The Boys in the Boat. Initially constructed as a WWI seaplane hangar, it has most recently functioned as a storage area for shells and boats. The area is referred to as “Carry a Canoe” in Lushootseed, stəx̌ʷugʷit (stukh-ug-weelth), which has long served as a natural portage utilized by families and tribes.
Following the war, the Navy’s facilities were handed over to UW. In August 1919, it was announced that the majority would be sold and dismantled. Since hangars like these were viewed as temporary structures supporting the Navy’s wartime efforts, most were torn down. Student volunteers and crew members excavated a 1,000-foot trench to lay steam pipes from Lander Hall to warm the expansive space, and when everything was set, large letters painted above the massive doors declared “A.S.U.W. Shell House.” Today, it remains one of just two such wooden hangars still in existence and has become a symbol of rowing and UW’s heritage.
“Buildings, like individuals, possess narratives to share,” Brown expressed. “In these tumultuous times, we all yearn for instances of people coming together for a common objective. And that is precisely what the tale of ‘The Boys In the Boat’ and this edifice encapsulate.”
“Thanks to your support, our campus and community can gather at the water’s edge, commemorate our shared legacy, and embark on a promising future collectively,” stated Denzil Suite, Vice President of Student Life, overseeing the operation of the building.
Initiatives for the renovation project commenced in 2016. From the outset, the aim has been for community members to contribute ideas for maintaining the building’s historical character while adapting it for contemporary use and guaranteeing the structural soundness of its facilities — thus transforming it into an appropriate venue for events, programs, and community gatherings. An exhibit commemorating the historically significant Pocock workshop and the rowing legacy of UW and the Seattle area, alongside the restoration of the historic wooden interior and hangar doors, are crucial elements.
Numerous factors of historical preservation were taken into account, including legacy, community effect, budget constraints, adaptation to modern building regulations, shoreline enhancements, and legal stipulations.
“We are profoundly thankful to every member of our community who shared their insights, fervor, and viewpoints,” UW President Robert J. Jones remarked. “Together, we are not only honoring the exceptional history of the ASUW Shell House but also crafting a hospitable, functional environment that will benefit generations to come and ensure its long-term vitality.”
The University formed a large and varied Advisory Committee to represent the diverse histories of the building as well as its array of future users. Over the ensuing years, the committee has provided invaluable insights regarding the project. These perspectives will ensure the completed building embodies a broad spectrum of views from those who deeply value the story that inspired a nation.
“Grounded in a rich history of gathering and purpose, this iconic space has long united students, athletes, and the wider community,” UW Foundation Board member Brooks Simpson noted. “It will genuinely serve as the ‘front dock’ to the UW campus — greeting students and inviting the public to explore our rich and intricate waterfront legacy.”
“Just as with any successful crew, we are distinct individuals who have learned to collaborate effectively. Our shared mission and meticulous process have led to the plan we are now pursuing,” former State Senator Mark Mullet stated. Mullet, who previously served on the Senate Ways & Means (budget) committee and as Vice Chair of the Capital Budget, helped secure $3 million for state funding in support of the renovation and adaptive use. “Together, we will ensure that the building — its beams, its rafters, and its authentic voice — continues to be the primary and most important storyteller.”
The ASUW Shell House was the first UW building to be inscribed on the National Register of Historic Places (1975 as the Old Canoe House) and the first UW edifice to be designated a Seattle Landmark (2018). Today, it continues to occupy a culturally significant location — a site of gathering and movement for generations past, present, and future.
Learn more about the history of the ASUW Shell House.
###
Editor’s NOTE: The 3D renderings credit: Plomp for Mithun | Sellen) are also available online. Photos from the event are courtesy of Tara Brown Photography.
“`