Today’s Washington State insurance industry can trace its origins as far back as ancient Babylon in the Middle East. However, the industry as people know it today can be said to have had its modern origins in the coffee houses of 17th century London, England. 

In the 17th century, London was a global trade center. The increasing variety of goods travelling in and out of London’s ports led to an increasing demand for ship and cargo insurance.    

At the time, coffee had just been brought to Europe and its increasing popularity saw a rapid spread of shops across the city of London. These “coffee houses," as they were known, became fashionable places to see and be seen.

Some developed a reputation for catering for particular trades and groups of people. The most famous of these was a coffee house run by Edward Lloyd. His house became known as the shop where merchants, ship owners and captains went to drink their coffee. It therefore became the place to go if you wanted to talk to those in the know about shipping matters. From this beginning Lloyds of London developed into the city’s center for marine insurance.

While you may not be seeking marine insurance, the Washington State insurance market may be able to provide that and more. Why not make a New Year’s resolution to talk to our friendly staff and see how your insurance cover can be improved in 2012?  

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