History of Tacoma, Washington

Tacoma, Washington, often referred to as the “City of Destiny,” is a vibrant port city with a rich and diverse history that has shaped its growth and character. Located in the Pacific Northwest, this city has played a significant role in the region’s development, from its early indigenous roots to its emergence as a hub of industry, culture, and transportation. This article delves into the history of Tacoma, exploring its origins, growth, and the key events and developments that have defined its journey over the centuries.

Early Indigenous History

The Puyallup Tribe

Tacoma’s history begins long before European settlers arrived, with the area being home to the Puyallup Tribe for thousands of years. The Puyallup people lived along the banks of the Puyallup River, taking advantage of the rich natural resources in the region. They were skilled fishers, hunters, and gatherers, relying heavily on salmon, shellfish, and the abundant plant life in the area. The tribe’s name, “Puyallup,” means “generous people,” reflecting their cultural values and way of life.

Native Culture and Society

The Puyallup Tribe, like many other Coast Salish tribes, had a complex and organized society. They lived in longhouses, which were large wooden structures that could house multiple families. These longhouses were central to their community life, serving as places for social gatherings, ceremonies, and the passing down of oral traditions. Potlatches, a type of ceremonial feast, were significant events where wealth and status were displayed and redistributed within the community.

Impact of European Contact

The arrival of European explorers and settlers in the late 18th and early 19th centuries brought significant changes to the lives of the Puyallup people. European diseases, such as smallpox, decimated the indigenous population, leading to a dramatic decline in their numbers. Additionally, the introduction of new goods and technologies, such as metal tools and firearms, altered traditional ways of life and economic practices.

European Exploration and Settlement

The Lewis and Clark Expedition

One of the earliest European explorations of the Pacific Northwest was the Lewis and Clark Expedition in 1804-1806. Although the expedition did not pass directly through what is now Tacoma, it played a crucial role in opening up the region to further exploration and settlement. The reports of abundant natural resources and fertile land attracted interest from fur traders, missionaries, and eventually settlers.

The Hudson’s Bay Company

In the early 19th century, the Hudson’s Bay Company (HBC) established a presence in the Pacific Northwest, including the area around Tacoma. Fort Nisqually, located south of Tacoma near present-day DuPont, was established in 1833 as a fur trading post. The fort became a center of economic activity, trading goods such as furs, lumber, and fish with indigenous tribes and European settlers. The HBC’s operations in the region laid the groundwork for future settlement and development.

Early Settlers in Tacoma

The first permanent European settlers arrived in the Tacoma area in the mid-19th century. Nicolas Delin, a Swedish settler, established a sawmill on the shores of Commencement Bay in 1852, marking the beginning of Tacoma’s development as an industrial center. Delin’s mill attracted other settlers, and a small community began to form around the mill site. However, it wasn’t until the late 1860s that Tacoma’s growth truly began to accelerate.

The Railroad and the City of Destiny

The Northern Pacific Railroad

The most significant event in Tacoma’s early history was the decision by the Northern Pacific Railroad (NPR) to make the city its western terminus. In 1873, Tacoma was chosen over Seattle as the endpoint of the transcontinental railroad, a decision that would forever change the city’s trajectory. The railroad’s arrival brought an influx of people, investment, and economic activity, earning Tacoma the nickname “City of Destiny.”

The Boom of the 1880s

The completion of the Northern Pacific Railroad in 1883 triggered a period of rapid growth and development in Tacoma. The city’s population skyrocketed as new businesses, industries, and residents flooded in. The waterfront area along Commencement Bay became a bustling hub of activity, with docks, warehouses, and factories lining the shore. The timber industry, in particular, boomed as Tacoma became a major center for logging and lumber production.

Tacoma’s Growth as a Port City

Tacoma’s strategic location on Puget Sound made it an ideal port city. The deep waters of Commencement Bay allowed large ships to dock, facilitating trade with Asia, Alaska, and other parts of the world. The city’s port quickly became one of the busiest on the West Coast, handling goods such as timber, coal, fish, and agricultural products. This growth in maritime trade further solidified Tacoma’s role as a key economic center in the Pacific Northwest.

Industrialization and Urbanization

The Rise of Industry

By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Tacoma had firmly established itself as an industrial powerhouse. In addition to the timber industry, the city became a center for manufacturing, with industries such as shipbuilding, metalworking, and food processing taking root. The ASARCO copper smelter, which began operations in 1890, became one of the largest employers in the city and a symbol of Tacoma’s industrial might.

Urban Development

As Tacoma’s economy grew, so did its urban landscape. The city’s downtown area developed rapidly, with new buildings, businesses, and infrastructure projects transforming the cityscape. The construction of streetcars and the Tacoma Railway and Power Company (later known as Tacoma Power) in the early 20th century improved transportation and spurred further urbanization. Residential neighborhoods sprang up around the city, accommodating the growing population.

The Influence of Immigrants

Tacoma’s growth was fueled in part by waves of immigrants who came to the city seeking work and opportunity. Scandinavian, Italian, Chinese, and Japanese immigrants were among those who settled in Tacoma, each contributing to the city’s cultural diversity. These immigrant communities established their own neighborhoods, businesses, and cultural institutions, enriching Tacoma’s social fabric.

The Great Depression and World War II

Economic Challenges

The Great Depression of the 1930s brought significant economic challenges to Tacoma, as it did to much of the United States. The city’s industrial base was hit hard, with many businesses closing and unemployment soaring. However, Tacoma’s port and transportation infrastructure helped mitigate some of the worst effects, as the city continued to play a role in trade and commerce.

World War II and the War Effort

World War II brought renewed economic activity to Tacoma. The city’s shipyards and manufacturing plants were vital to the war effort, producing ships, tanks, and other military equipment. The Tacoma shipyard, operated by the Todd Pacific Shipyards Corporation, became one of the largest shipbuilding facilities on the West Coast. The war also led to an influx of workers, including many women, who took on roles traditionally held by men.

Post-War Boom

The post-war period saw continued growth and development in Tacoma. The city expanded its infrastructure, including the construction of new highways, bridges, and public facilities. The population grew as returning veterans and their families settled in the area. The suburbanization trend of the 1950s and 1960s led to the development of new residential areas on the outskirts of the city, further shaping Tacoma’s urban landscape.

Modern Tacoma: Transformation and Revitalization

Economic Shifts

The latter half of the 20th century brought significant economic shifts to Tacoma. The decline of traditional industries such as logging and manufacturing led to economic challenges, including job losses and population decline. However, the city began to reinvent itself by diversifying its economy, focusing on sectors such as healthcare, education, and technology. The establishment of institutions like the University of Washington Tacoma campus in 1990 played a key role in this transformation.

Urban Revitalization

In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, Tacoma underwent a period of urban revitalization. Efforts to redevelop the downtown area and waterfront resulted in new cultural attractions, restaurants, and businesses. The restoration of historic buildings, such as Union Station and the Pantages Theater, helped preserve Tacoma’s architectural heritage while contributing to its modern vibrancy. The Museum of Glass, which opened in 2002, became a symbol of the city’s cultural renaissance.

Tacoma Today

Today, Tacoma is a dynamic city known for its arts, culture, and natural beauty. The city’s neighborhoods are a blend of historic charm and modern amenities, with a strong sense of community pride. Tacoma’s economy continues to evolve, with a focus on sustainability, innovation, and inclusivity. The city’s port remains a vital part of its economy, while new industries and businesses contribute to its ongoing growth and development.

Key Events and Milestones in Tacoma’s History

Prominent Landmarks and Cultural Institutions

Union Station

Union Station is one of Tacoma’s most iconic landmarks. Built in 1911 as a train station for the Northern Pacific Railroad, it is a stunning example of Beaux-Arts architecture. The building features a grand rotunda with a domed ceiling and ornate detailing, making it a focal point of the city. Today, Union Station serves as a federal courthouse and houses various art installations, reflecting its continued importance in Tacoma’s cultural landscape.

The Pantages Theater

The Pantages Theater, located in downtown Tacoma, is a historic theater that has been a cultural hub for the city since its opening in 1918. Originally a vaudeville house, the Pantages has hosted countless performances, including plays, concerts, and ballets. The theater’s elegant design, with its ornate plasterwork and grand chandelier, has made it a beloved venue for both locals and visitors.

Museum of Glass

The Museum of Glass is a unique cultural institution that celebrates the art of glassmaking. Located on the waterfront, the museum features a stunning building designed by architect Arthur Erickson. The highlight of the museum is the Hot Shop, where visitors can watch glass artists at work, creating intricate and colorful pieces. The museum also hosts exhibitions of glass art from around the world, making it a must-visit destination in Tacoma.

Notable Figures in Tacoma’s History

George Francis Train

George Francis Train was a key figure in Tacoma’s early development. A businessman and entrepreneur, Train was instrumental in bringing the Northern Pacific Railroad to Tacoma, securing the city’s future as a major transportation hub. He was known for his eccentric personality and ambitious vision for Tacoma, which he believed would become a great metropolis. Although Train’s grand plans were not fully realized, his influence on the city’s history is undeniable.

The Wright Family

The Wright family, including William W. Wright and his son George Wright, were prominent figures in Tacoma’s early industrial development. William W. Wright established the Tacoma Mill Company, one of the city’s first major businesses, in the 1870s. His son, George, continued the family’s business legacy, expanding the company’s operations and contributing to Tacoma’s growth as an industrial center. The Wright family’s impact on Tacoma’s economy and development was significant during the city’s formative years.

Julia Harrison

Julia Harrison was a pioneering educator and social reformer in Tacoma during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. As one of the first female teachers in the city, she played a key role in shaping Tacoma’s educational system. Harrison was also involved in various social causes, advocating for women’s rights and social justice. Her contributions to Tacoma’s community and educational institutions left a lasting legacy.

Conclusion

Tacoma, Washington, has a rich and multifaceted history that reflects the broader trends and developments of the Pacific Northwest. From its early indigenous roots to its emergence as an industrial powerhouse and its ongoing transformation into a modern, vibrant city, Tacoma’s history is a story of resilience, innovation, and community. As the “City of Destiny,” Tacoma continues to evolve, building on its storied past while looking towards a promising future.