Historical Homes
Built in 1889 · Port Townsend, Washington
744 Clay Street, Port Townsend, WA 98368
A masterpiece of Victorian architecture, the Starrett House is among the most iconic historic residences in Port Townsend, Washington. Constructed in 1889 by local builder George Starrett as a tribute to his wife Ann, this magnificent home is celebrated not only for its elegance but also for its architectural ingenuity and preservation.
Known affectionately as “The Grand Dame,” the Starrett House is one of only three homes in the area designated as “pivotal” on the National Historic Register. One of its most astonishing features is a free-hung staircase, a marvel of 19th-century craftsmanship, that ascends 70 feet from the ground floor to the stained-glass crowned dome—where frescoes of maidens encircle the interior, watching silently over the home’s heart.
With 11 bedrooms, 10 bathrooms, and numerous period rooms including a parlor, library, and sitting room, the house remains a testament to the opulence and optimism of the late 1800s. Inside, you’ll find exquisite fir flooring, ornate woodwork, painted high ceilings, and original light fixtures and hardware—meticulously preserved or restored.
The home is situated on a corner lot, carefully designed to take full advantage of natural light and sweeping views of the town and surrounding seascape. Its brick foundation and faux slate roof have stood the test of time, reflecting both its aesthetic merit and structural integrity.
Just a short stroll from Port Townsend’s downtown, the Starrett House remains one of the finest examples of high Victorian residential architecture in the Pacific Northwest.
