For more than 150 years, the activity on and around Commencement Bay-since the 1840s, when Charles Wilkes first named it, to the present day-has been a barometer for measuring Tacoma's maritime and industrial growth and development. Wilkes's early exploration assured the inclusion of Puget Sound within the boundaries of the United States following negotiations with Great Britain in 1846. Drawn to the deep waters of the south shore of the bay, the Northern Pacific Railroad established its transcontinental terminus here in 1873 and, in the process, created the city of Tacoma. In the early...
For more than 150 years, the activity on and around Commencement Bay-since the 1840s, when Charles Wilkes first named it, to the present day-has been ...
Tacoma, like most cities across the nation, has changed its appearance over time, creating many different urban landscapes. This phenomenon was apparent throughout the area as landowners, developers, community organizations, and government agencies all contributed to the citys growth and transformation. The changing landscape was further impacted by fires, earthquakes, and other acts of nature, resulting in a rich mosaic of old and new. The history of Vanishing Tacoma illustrates the citys past and present landscapes and honors the historic properties that still remain.
Tacoma, like most cities across the nation, has changed its appearance over time, creating many different urban landscapes. This phenomenon was appare...
