By the end of 1889 , Seattle had become the largest city in Washington with 40,000 residents . That same year , the Great Seattle Fire resulted in the complete destruction of Pioneer Square . However , the economy was strong at the time , so Pioneer Square was quickly rebuilt . Many of the new buildings show the influence of the Romanesque Revival architectural mode , although influence of earlier Victorian modes is also widespread . Because of drainage problems new development was built at a higher level literally burying the remains of old Pioneer Square . Anticipating the planned regrade , many buildings were built with two entrances , one at the old , low level , and another higher up . Visitors can take the Seattle Underground Tour to see what remains of the old storefronts
Great Seattle Fire
Great Seattle Fire
Pioneer Square, Seattle