BY CHRISTINA OLSON HENDRICKSON
Although it didn’t glitter, lumber was gold in a timber town like Everett – and 100 years ago, Weyerhaeuser was the city’s King Midas.
The company had purchased its first Everett mill in 1901, and by the 1920s this outpost of the Weyerhaeuser Timber Company was the principal lumber supplier of the entire East Coast.
Fortunes were made, and that wealth required flaunting – often in the form of now-historic architecture that dots the city.
To accommodate the wealthy looking to adorn their houses with ornate woodwork, the Weyerhaeuser Building was constructed. At 6,000 square feet, the company built it using fir, hemlock and cedar to showcase the species of wood logged and milled in the region. Originally used as the main administration office of their Everett branch, the Gothic-style building moved several times since construction was completed in 1923, but it is now permanently at home at the Port of Everett’s Boxcar Park. And now, after decades of being closed to the public, it will again open its doors to the city it was built to celebrate.
March 23, 2023 is the 100 year anniversary of the Weyerhaeuser Building’s completion – and it’s the day it will reopen as home to The Muse, a specialty whiskey and wine bar, and coffee shop. The date holds a special place in owner Jack Ng’s heart.
“I immigrated to America on March 23, 1990,” Ng said. “My finding of this opportunity with the Weyerhaeuser Building feels like it was meant to be.”
Thanks to a partnership with the Port of Everett, renovation and restoration of the building is already underway with plans to keep as much of the original woodwork, windows and other details as possible. Upgrades include improved accessibility, utilities, and modernization of restrooms.
“Whether you’re just starting to learn about whiskey or are very familiar with high end options, there will be something for you at The Muse,” Ng said.
“We’re planning tasting events with local and niche distilleries, and our expert bartenders are developing unique spins on classic cocktails, as well as our own creations.”
Those who are more wine-inclined can join The Muse Wine Club. Membership includes a wine locker for storing personal favorites, access to invite-only tasting events, and special pricing on wine throughout the year.
If alcohol isn’t in the cards, visitors can enjoy java from Mukilteo Coffee Roasters, and a wide selection of freshly baked pastries. Upstairs, the beautifully restored second floor will be available for small weddings, parties and other events.
As restoration work has progressed, there has been an outpouring of nostalgia and excitement from the community.
“I talked to a woman who told her children she remembered growing up seeing the Weyerhaeuser Building.” said Rachel Escalle, Vice President of Operations at The Muse.
“The opportunity to actually go inside, talk about their memories, and to experience the building in a new way means a lot to everyone I’ve spoken to.”
There will soon be new memories made – just outside The Muse, the Port is investing additional resources to build an outdoor stage where community events and concerts can be hosted. Between the excellent food, beverages, and event venues, Boxcar Park and The Muse are providing exciting additions to the community.
The Weyerhaeuser Building is part of Everett’s history, but now it will also be a vibrant part of the city’s future. The centennial celebration and grand opening of The Muse is March 23, 2023.
For more information, email info@thewhiskeymuse.com.
