Kirkland's History

Matt McCauley, local historian, discussed Kirkland's history 

as he led us through Kirkland's cemetery

Read about an earlier cemetery tour here

Many nationalities are represented in the cemetery

Kirkland's Louie Todd & his story

"Many residents walking down Kirkland Avenue and Lake Street might not know of a murder that took place on those streets in the 1930s, or that the killer walked away scot-free. Harry H. Loy, who worked at the local drug store located at the corner, suspected Louis “Louie” Todd, owner of the Todd Feed Store on Park Lane, of having an affair with his wife. When Todd was seen on the street, the jealous husband confronted him and got into an argument. Despite Todd adamantly denying anything was going on, Loy pulled out a gun and shot him dead.

Although Loy was disarmed by the town marshal, arrested and charged for the murder in a King County court, when the case finally went to trial, the jury shared his suspicions. Enough doubt was cast on the possibility of an affair, McCauley said, the jury acquitted him." (Kirkland Reporter)

Not long ago Kirkland's Heritage Society placed a marker on Todd's previously unmarked grave. This slab of concrete came from Kirkland's tennis courts. Todd was instrumental in promoting and raising funds for the tennis courts. 

More on McCauley here