Seattle’s history often overlooks the significant contributions of women. However, the "Six Women: A Seattle History Tour" aims to shine a light on their stories. Led by a knowledgeable historian, this 90-minute walking tour explores the city’s Chinatown, uncovering tales of wartime prostitution, the women’s strike for better pay, and the resilience of trailblazers. With a maximum group size of 12 and accessible routes, participants can discover the untold narratives that shaped Seattle’s past.
Key Points
- Explore Seattle’s Chinatown and WWII red-light district on a 90-minute walking tour led by a historian guide.
- Discover the stories of wartime prostitutes and their struggles for survival and autonomy in the sex trade.
- Learn about the women’s strike for better pay in the 1930s, highlighting their resilience and fight for economic justice.
- Accessible tour for wheelchair users and strollers, with a maximum group size of 12 for an intimate experience.
- Tour not recommended for children under 16, focusing on Seattle’s wartime history and the lives of influential women.
Tour Overview
The Six Women: A Seattle History Tour is a 90-minute walking tour that takes participants through the city’s Chinatown, exploring its WWII red-light district and the history of wartime prostitution.
Led by a historian guide, the tour covers one mile and is wheelchair and stroller accessible.
With a maximum group size of 12, the tour departs from the Cherry Street Coffee House at 11:00 am and returns to the same meeting point.
The tour is priced at $33 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
It isn’t recommended for children under 16.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Seattle.
Tour Highlights
Explore Oahu’s WWII red-light district, focusing on the history of wartime prostitutes.
Visit tattoo parlors, bars, and former brothels in Chinatown. Hear tales of debauchery and the women’s strike for better pay from a historian guide.
The tour covers 1 mile, is wheelchair accessible, and can be booked as a private tour.
This walking tour provides an in-depth look into Seattle’s past, shedding light on the lives and struggles of the women who shaped the city’s history.
Wartime Prostitution in Seattle
During World War II, Seattle’s Chinatown became a notorious red-light district, catering to the needs of the many military personnel stationed in the area.
Tattoo parlors, bars, and former brothels dotted the landscape, where women plied their trade. Historians recount tales of debauchery and the women’s strike for better pay.
This walking tour explores the dark underbelly of wartime Seattle, shedding light on the history of these "wartime prostitutes" and their struggle for survival and autonomy.
Visitors can expect to hear captivating stories from a knowledgeable guide as they traverse the streets of this once-thriving red-light district.
Chinatown’s Red-Light District
As visitors make their way through Seattle’s Chinatown, they’ll uncover the storied past of its once-thriving red-light district.
The tour guides recount tales of debauchery, guiding participants to former brothels, tattoo parlors, and bars that catered to sailors and soldiers during World War II.
Guests learn about the wartime prostitutes who fought for better pay and working conditions, and the gritty realities of life in the district.
Through these haunting stories, the tour sheds light on a complex and often overlooked chapter of Seattle’s history.
Women’s Strike for Better Pay
The walking tour also recounts the gritty history of the women’s strike for better pay in Seattle’s Chinatown.
In the 1930s, low-wage workers, mostly Chinese and Japanese women, organized a strike demanding higher wages and better working conditions. The strike ignited tensions, with police cracking down on protesters.
Despite the risks, the women persisted, staging marches and demonstrations. Their courageous actions drew national attention, ultimately leading to improved labor standards.
Today, the tour highlights this pivotal moment, honoring the resilience and determination of these trailblazing women who fought for economic justice.
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Tour Accessibility and Participation
The Six Women: A Seattle History Tour caters to a wide range of participants.
It’s wheelchair and stroller accessible, and service animals are welcome. Public transportation makes the tour easily accessible. Most travelers can participate, though it’s not recommended for children under 16.
The 1-mile walking tour covers Seattle’s wartime history, focusing on the stories of sex workers and the women’s strike for better pay.
With a maximum group size of 12, the tour provides an intimate and immersive experience for history enthusiasts seeking an engaging, accessible way to explore Seattle’s lesser-known past.
Tour Reviews and Ratings
How do the reviews and ratings for the Six Women: A Seattle History Tour compare to other offerings?
With a flawless 5.0 overall rating from 19 reviews, the tour is a clear standout.
Highlights from travelers include:
- "Extraordinary!! Carter’s walking tour was outstanding!"
- "This tour was great! Fun stories about brothels!"
- "Highly recommend this tour for anyone interested in Seattle’s history."
- "Learned so much from our knowledgeable guide."
- "Interesting and engaging from start to finish."
The tour’s stellar reviews and ratings demonstrate its exceptional quality and the deep appreciation from those who’ve experienced it.
Booking Information
Booking the Six Women: A Seattle History Tour is straightforward. Confirmation is received at the time of booking, providing all the details.
The tour offers a lowest price guarantee, ensuring customers get the best deal. Travelers can also choose the Reserve Now and Pay Later option for added convenience.
Transportation to and from the attractions is included, taking the hassle out of getting to the meeting point. While gratuities for the guide aren’t included in the tour price, tipping is optional.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Based on the tour overview, it doesn’t mention whether you can bring your own food and drinks. However, it’s likely not encouraged as the tour focuses on visiting historical sites rather than providing refreshments. You’ll have to check with the tour operator to confirm.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?
The tour website doesn’t mention any discounts for seniors or students. However, it’s best to contact the tour operator directly to inquire about any available discounts that may not be listed on the website.
Is the Tour Guide Available for Private Bookings or Events?
Yes, the tour guide is available for private bookings and events. The tour can be booked as a private experience for groups of any size, allowing for customized itineraries and schedules to suit the client’s needs.
Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment or Gear for the Tour?
No special equipment or gear is required for this tour. The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and participants are welcome to bring service animals. Just come prepared to walk about a mile and enjoy the historical tales.
Can I Extend the Tour Duration or Add Additional Stops?
Participants can’t extend the tour duration or add additional stops. The tour length and stops are fixed at 90 minutes and the specified locations. However, the tour can be booked as a private tour for more customization.
Sum Up
The "Six Women: A Seattle History Tour" offers a captivating exploration of Seattle’s Chinatown, uncovering the untold stories of women during WWII. Led by a knowledgeable historian, the tour delves into the city’s notorious red-light district, the women’s strike for better pay, and the resilience of trailblazing women. With accessible routes and a small group size, this tour highlights the significant contributions of women to Seattle’s history.
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