The 18-foot, 13,000-pound Fremont Troll was built with cement, rebar and wire in 1990. Photo: Phil H. Webber/Courtesy of MOHAI, Seattle Post-Intelligencer Photograph Collection [2000.107.166.11.02]
Why it matters: Built to discourage dumping and illegal activity under the Aurora Bridge, the troll turned a neglected patch of dirt into a beloved landmark.
Reflecting Seattle's roots with Scandinavian folklore, counterculture creativity, and civic DIY energy, the Troll still draws admirers decades later.
Flashback: In 1989, the Fremont Arts Council launched a public art contest to rehabilitate the area under the bridge using neighborhood matching funds from the city.
Badanes, Will Martin, Donna Walter, Ross Whitehead — and loads of volunteers — built the 18-foot, 13,000-pound sculpture of rebar, sand, mesh and cement for about $15,000, Badanes said.
Fun facts: The Troll was inspired by the Norwegian folktale "Three Billy Goats Gruff" and is holding a real Volkswagen Beetle with a California plate, per Badanes.
