History History whispers tales of yesteryears into every nook and cranny, including the vibrant Emerald City, Washington. Founding and Early Years The Emerald City, as Seattle, Washington is often called, was founded on November 13, 1852, by a party led by Arthur A. Denny, a lawyer from Illinois. Originally named "Denny's Party" after their leader, the settlement grew rapidly due to the clearing of land for farming and logging. Growth During the Great Depression The Great Depression, which lasted from 1929 to roughly the mid-1930s, significantly impacted Emerald City (now known as Seattle),