Centennials Table Topics

Table Topic questions are meant to stimulate family and classroom discussion.
Use the questions below after reading,"Centennials: Time to crow a bit"

A Centennial event, like that celebrated by Seattle in 1951, reflects on growth, change and accomplishments over time. What important events have occurred over the last 100 years to shape regional development and destiny? What do you think the next 100 years will bring? Seattle's Centennial re-staged the Denny landing. What public events might symbolize our 45-year history since 1951?
When the Denny Party of 12 adults and 12 children landed on Alki Beach in 1851, what did the territory look like and what challenges did it present? Why do you think they came? When settling a new territory, what would be your first order of business? Can you name any other members of the Denny party? How are they remembered in our city today?
The Seattle area was settled by other inhabitants prior to the Dennys, maybe even thousands of years before. How can we know about these early communities and how the people lived? The Dennys are credited with "founding" Seattle, despite earlier Native-American and white residents. What is the difference, if any, between the Denny claim and others? How important are written records to the establishment of authenticity? Today, the Duwamish Tribe is struggling for official recognition as an autonomous tribe. What might be involved in this process?
This year, The Seattle Times celebrates 100 years of ownership by the same family, with the fifth generation now learning the business. What other family businesses, old and new, are prominent in our community and what do you know of their histories? How do family businesses differ from those owned by large corporations or the public? What are the advantages and disadvantages of family ownership?
In 1863, Seattle was a town of 120 people and a four-page newspaper. Why are newspapers often among the first businesses in a new community? What kinds of stories do you think were in that first newspaper? What would you select as the most essential elements or sections of the newspaper today? Many early newspapers had a specific point-of-view and political affiliation. Is this true of modern newspapers? Does politics influence your decision to read one paper over another?
A time capsule was buried during the 1951 Seattle Centennial. What do you suppose was placed inside it to represent the time? What would you place inside a time capsule today? One hundred years from now, would it provide people with a good idea of how you live your life?