Join author and historian Brad Holden as he discusses early drug culture in the Puget Sound region. From opium factories in nearby Victoria, B.C., which fueled an active network of opium dens, to the various narcotic-based medications that were legal to purchase at local pharmacies, Brad will discuss the area's first drug epidemic and how Western Washington attempted to deal with the situation. Learn how anti-Chinese sentiment led to Seattle and Tacoma enacting some of the nation's earliest drug laws, as well as how one of the world's largest shipping services got its start amid Seattle's early cocaine trade. Despite taking place over a hundred years ago, this fascinating era serves as a grim historical reminder surrounding issues of illicit drug use playing out today.  

Brad Holden is an author, historian, and finder of old things. When not out searching for local historical artifacts, Brad enjoys writing about the illicit side of Seattle's past. He is a contributing writer for HistoryLink.org and his work has also appeared in the Seattle Times; My Edmonds News; and Seattle Magazine. Brad has been profiled on KIRO and KOMO news, Seattle Refined, NPR, King 5 "Evening" and in various publications. He is the author of a trilogy of books related to local prohibition history, including his latest book, Lost Roadhouses of Seattle. He lives in Edmonds, WA.  

Enjoy 15% off your hotel stay on History Pub nights! Show your ticket at check-in.

These events are open to everyone interested in Pacific Northwest history, and beyond! Often co-sponsored by local or state historical and civic organizations, we bring you experts, scholars, first-person experiencers, historians and documentaries expounding on topics from indigenous history to the birth of Portland, early explorers to hop growing, and on and on! It's like being back in the classroom - except this time you get to settle into comfortable seats and enjoy a drink or two with dinner while you listen and learn.

This event is eligible for a History Pub Stamp