Russian Community Center of Seattle records, 1952-2016

With the arrival of a large number of Russian immigrants to Seattle after World War II, an interest in Russian community life was renewed. In 1952, a group of new and longtime immigrants formed a club and, one year later, acquired a temporary hall which served as the Russian Community Center (RCC) for six years. In 1959, the club obtained the former Roycroft Theater on Seattle's Capitol Hill. The interior was remodeled from a motion picture theater into a ballroom/auditorium with a theater stage. The Center opened to the public on October 29, 1960.

Two Balalaika Orchestras were formed at the Russian Community Center as well as a theatrical group which staged countless productions, enhancing the cultural life of the community. In past years, the RCC has been home to a chess club, Russian art gallery, and puppet theater. Promoting Russian Culture has always been of primary importance to the RCC. Over the years the Executive Board and Ladies' Auxiliary have organized innumerable social events: concerts by local and visiting performing artists; annual crafts and food bazaars; spring, autumn, and New Year's balls; and children's talent shows.

The Russian Community Center celebrated its 25th Anniversary with a gala dinner, concert, and ball on November 13, 1977. An official program, prepared under the auspices of RCC President Boris K. Holm, described the early history of the club. On September 7, 2003, a festive dinner, concert, and anniversary ball commemorated the 50th Anniversary of the Russian Community Center. The official program included an update to the club's history, highlighting events from its second 25 years. Moving into the 21st century, the Russian Community Center continues to fulfill its mission to preserve and promote Russian culture, while maintaining and upgrading its fine, vintage facility for the entire community.