Hat 'n' Boots (2002 photo)
Seattle, WA
Photo by RoadsidePeek.com

Opening in the 1950's, the Hat 'n' Boots gas station was a unique sight for travelers searching for a place to put gas in the car. Even during an era where unique signage and architecture could be found, the Hat 'n' Boots gas station stood out from the crowd. Unfortunately, the 1980's brought leaner times and the Hat 'n Boots became in danger of meeting a destination with the saddle in the sky.

Back in the 1950s, few roadside stops could compete with Hat 'n' Boots. A giant cowboy hat served as the gas station office while two oversized cowboy boots housed the restrooms, making it one of the most unforgettable stops along old Highway 99.

Built in 1954, the western-themed station was impossible to miss. The whimsical design turned an ordinary fill-up into a roadside attraction, and for years it was one of Washington's busiest gas stations. As Interstate 5 drew traffic away from Highway 99, business faded, and the station eventually closed in 1988.

Hat 'n' Boots (February 2005 photo)
Photo courtesy Jerry Jackson

After much outcry from residents and architects alike, the Hat 'n' Boots was saved from demolition. The Georgetown Community Council purchased the structures and moved the Hat 'n' Boots to the Oxbow Park. As you can tell, the framework of the hat still needs to be filled in. The good news is the Hat 'n' Boots has been saved and remains a fine reminder to the days when businesses designed their buildings as curiosities to attract customers. 02-05

UPDATE: The hat and boots were moved to nearby Oxbow Park in 2003, where they were carefully restored. Today the boots still welcome visitors, while the giant hat serves as a picnic shelter for a whole new generation of road trippers. 07-26