So far, the answer is a bit confused. KUOW, citing the City of Seattle’s archivist, says no. The Seattle Times says not in recent memory. And local historian Paul Dorpat says yes, 126 years ago.

The councilmember was…

…A.W. Piper, the proprietor of the Puget Sound Candy Manufactory and confections shop. Understandably, Piper was popular on account of his sweets, but also for his cartoons and generally good humor. Piper was also the first socialist on the Seattle City Council, although not the last.

Mr. Piper served from 1877 – 1878.

Eli Sanders was The Stranger's associate editor. His book, "While the City Slept," was a finalist for the Washington State Book Award and the Dayton Literary Peace Prize. He once did this and once won...