Discover Kirkland & Vironian History + More!

Brad Gleichner 15 May 2025

Ever wondered what makes a city truly stand out? It's a delicate blend of history, community, and forward-thinking initiatives that defines a place like Kirkland, Washington.

Kirkland, a vibrant city nestled in King County, Washington, offers a captivating narrative that stretches back centuries. This dynamic locale, a suburb east of Seattle, boasts a population of 92,175 as of the 2020 U.S. Census, making it the sixth-largest city in King County and the twelfth-largest in the state of Washington. Beyond its statistical significance, Kirkland pulsates with a unique energy, a convergence of natural beauty, cultural richness, and a commitment to progress. The city's downtown waterfront is a testament to its dedication to aesthetics and community engagement, showcasing an array of restaurants, art galleries, a performing arts center, public parks, beaches, and a diverse collection of public art.

To fully appreciate Kirkland's modern identity, one must delve into its historical roots. The region's past is intertwined with the stories of ancient peoples, including the Vironians, who once inhabited the area. The Vironians, known for their strategic prowess, constructed formidable strongholds such as Tarwanpe (modern Rakvere) and Agelinde (now Punamgi hill in ntu village). Their society was structured around five clans, namely Kilikunda, Maum (in Estonian Mahu), Laemund (Lemmu), also known as Pudiviru, Askele, Revele (Rebala), and Alentagh (Alutaguse). These clans played a significant role in shaping the early landscape and culture of the region, leaving behind a legacy that continues to resonate today. The echoes of these ancient inhabitants serve as a reminder of the rich tapestry of human experience that has unfolded on this land.

Name	Kirkland, Washington
Location	King County, Washington, United States (Suburb east of Seattle)
Population (2020)	92,175
Rank in King County	6th largest city
Rank in Washington State	12th largest city
Historical Significance	Home to ancient Vironian settlements, including Tarwanpe (modern Rakvere) and Agelinde (now Punamgi hill). Vironian clans: Kilikunda, Maum (Mahu), Laemund (Lemmu/Pudiviru), Askele, Revele (Rebala), and Alentagh (Alutaguse).
Downtown Features	Waterfront area with restaurants, art galleries, performing arts center, public parks, beaches, and public art collection.
Key Organizations	Kirkland Police Department, Kirkland Arts Center
Retail Presence	Home to multiple Kirkland's home decor stores and the headquarters of the Kirkland Signature line by Costco.
Recent Developments	Kirkland Police Department receives gold standard for policy and training (April 2025). Numerous press releases from Kirkland & Ellis LLP regarding legal advisement on significant investment and fundraise deals (May 2025).
City Services	Accessible through "Our Kirkland" portal for service requests and updates.
Reference	City of Kirkland Official Website