Iconic Convos: Fremont Troll

Nicole Bearden (NB): Hello, and welcome to another Iconic Convo with Seattle’s most recognizable icons. Today we are speaking with the Fremont Troll. We appreciate you spending time with us today, Fremont Troll. 

Fremont Troll (FT): *Grunts, and nods slowly as dust drifts from his head to float through the air*

NB: Now, you’ve been around since 1990. How have you noticed that the city has changed over the past 35 years?

FT: *Clears throat in a rumbling cough* I mostly stay here in Fremont; occasionally I wander over to Ballard to the Locks, or Gasworks Park in Wallingford. I would say the biggest changes are the people. There are so many of you! Fremont used to be quiet, even under the busy bridge, but now, there is constant traffic, even during the week. Don’t get me started on Sunday Market days. Talk about crowded! 

Businesses have changed, of course. I miss the old Still Life Cafe, it was a place where I could go and have a quiet meal, meet friends, read a book. There is a dearth of that kind of place these days. 

Fremont Rocket with model of Saturn behind it, as reminders of the “center of the universe” neighborhood motto.

The Evergreen Echo

NB: Seattle is booming these days. And yes, we have lost a lot of great cafes around town. I still yearn for B&O Espresso 14 years after they have closed up shop.

Do you still find that Fremont embodies that Center of the Universe vibe?

FT: That slogan actually came after me, and was more of a marketing ploy, if I remember correctly. I find that I prefer the slogan on the Fremont Rocket: De Libertas Quirkas ("Freedom to be Peculiar"). That seems to exemplify the history of the neighborhood a bit more. Although, I must say, Fremont seems to be less peculiar these days, aside from the Solstice Parade. Those painted bikers always cause a ruckus. *chuckles as a few pebbles fly out of his mouth.]*

NB: I can see that. I used to work in Fremont many years ago, and it was stranger overall, but I think that is part of the city expanding—it’s less eclectic all over. Some time ago, we spoke with Brodie Kraken, who says he is a friend of yours. We talked a bit about your nibling Buoy, and Brodie had some interesting things to say. What are your thoughts about Buoy’s sudden rise to mascot fame?

FT: *Rolls his large eye* To tell the truth, my sister and I are estranged, and have been for many years. I had no idea that Buoy even existed until my name came up on their application and suddenly everyone was associating us. I try to live a quiet life. It’s difficult because of my size, you know. And people enjoy coming to visit me under the bridge. But it’s difficult to stay under the radar when family (who are virtual strangers, I might add) keep bringing up your name. It seems that
Buoy is doing a decent job as mascotting, and I hope that can be enough. 

NB: What do you think about the whole *whispers* eating people rumors?

FT: I have heard some things, through the grapevine, and the SCN (Statue Communications Network), but I don’t have confirmation. Not to be rude, but I don’t wish to speak of Buoy anymore. You wouldn’t believe the number of reporters who have tried to get comments. Sorry, everyone, I have no idea what Buoy is up to. *Lifts giant hands in a shrug*

NB: *nervously eyeing those enormous stone hands hovering overhead* Heard. Moving on, Brodie said that the two of you play chess sometimes. What other things do you like to do?

FT: Ah! Yes, Brodie and I are due for a game soon, in fact. What else? I enjoy climbing the Gasworks, and leaping from one to the other, or simply watching the city and the seaplanes over the water. Oh, and the geese. Especially when someone is foolish enough to chase them. Ha ha ha! *[His booming laugh sounds like a kick drum with reverb.]

NB: Hopping around on the Gasworks sounds dangerous!

FT: Yes, well, I am an anthropomorphic statue, and cannot die, unless smashed by vandals. When I venture out from under the bridge, I am not in my physical form, so no harm can come to me. I also like to go out to the locks and walk around underwater. The sea lions are hilarious.

NB: Ah, I see. That does sound safer. It’s about time to wrap up, so do you have anything to add for our readers?

FT: Embrace the peculiar. It keeps life interesting.

NB: Succinct. I can get on board with that. Thank you again Fremont Troll for giving us a little glimpse. Fremont Troll can be found under the Aurora Bridge in Fremont.