Beginning in 1948, George and DeLayne Watton turned an empty lot into a gorgeous home at 3823 SW Willow Street in Seattle. Their final wish was for the city to tear it down.
Beginning in 1948, George and DeLayne Watton turned an empty lot into a gorgeous home at 3823 SW Willow Street in Seattle. Over the decades they gradually built their dream house, according to the Seattle Times, from just a four-room cabin into a four-bedroom family home. Their final wish was for the city to tear it down.
George and DeLayne Watton’s former home (Google Earth)
Beginning in 1998, the Wattons came to the city of Seattle with a plan to demolish their home and turn the lot into a park to benefit the neighborhood. George Watton, who purchased the lot for $100 in a veterans-only auction in 1946, donated the land and house to the city upon the death of himself and his wife, and provided a cash donation of $60,000 for the home’s demolition and removal. Because of its construction with asbestos, the home itself was valued at zero dollars, but according to Zillow.com, the lot is currently worth $403,000.
DeLayne Watton died in 2007, and George died in January 2014, clearing the way for the city to begin constructing the new park. Demolition is already underway, according to the Times, so someday soon visitors to 3823 SW Willow St. will be able to enjoy the city’s brand new “DeLangeo Park.” Share the Watton’s story of generosity with your own family and friends, and enjoy the breathtaking view the next time you visit Seattle.
