In 1888 , 31-year-old Robert Moran was elected the Republican mayor of Seattle . In those early years , the town 's mayors were elected in July for a one-year term . Near the end of his service , on June 6 , 1889 , the Great Seattle Fire destroyed most of the central business district . Moran 's leadership in coordinating the recovery activities won him a second term in the following month 's election . Through the period of his mayoralty , he was instrumental in the successful rebuilding of businesses , including Moran Bros. , which was destroyed in the fire . His political connections were also very helpful in securing government contracts for his shipbuilding company . Among his administration 's rebuilding efforts was the public overhaul of Seattle 's water system and the establishment of a savings and loan association , which later became Washington Mutual
Great Seattle Fire
Great Seattle Fire
Robert Moran (shipbuilder)