Historical Markers in
Pierce County, Washington

36th Airlift Squadron Memorial A Growing Community A Living History: the S'Homamish A Pioneering Woman A Recovering Forest A Rich Boat Building Legacy Across the Bay Alice Maude Smith, M.D. An Ancient Community Austin Estuary Beechcraft UC-45J Expeditor Bell and Pump House Birth of the Business District Birthplace of Harry Lillis "Bing" Crosby Boat House and Oil House Browns Point Light Station Building the Cabin Captain George Vancouver at Browns Point Changing Course Coming of the Railroad to Tacoma Community Life in Old Tacoma Community Spirit Convair F-102A Delta Dagger Convair F-106A Delta Dart Crescent Creek Park Totem Crew Quarters Douglas B-18A Bolo Douglas B-23 Dragon Douglas C-124C Globemaster II Douglas TC-47D Skytrain Elbe Evangelische Lutherische Kirche Emma Smith Devoe Ester Allstrum Explore Gig Harbor Wildwaters F-16 Fighting Falcon Fairchild C-82A Packet Fairchild Republic A-10A Thunderbolt II Fannie C. Paddock First House in Tacoma First Settlers Fishing Family Memorial Anchor From Valley to Bay Generator Building George Francis Train Global War on Terrorism Memorial Harvesting the Seas Heart of the Harbor Inspired to Preserve Janet Elder Steele Jennie Jones Job Carr's Cabin Judge H.R. (Dick) Thurston Kautz Creek Nature Trail Lakewood Veterans Memorial Light Keeper's Cottage Loadmasters Memorial Lockheed T-33A Shooting Star Lockheed-Georgia C-141B Starlifter Lost At Sea Malich Home Margaret Meeker Davis McDonnell CF-101F Voodoo McDonnell Douglas F-15A Eagle McMillin Bridge Military Road Mud on the Move Nettie Asberry North American F-86D Sabre Old Oregon Trail Our First Downtown Our First Sawmill Our First Settlers Paradise Inn Peninsula High School Salmon Rearing Program Peninsula Light Co. People's Dock POW/MIA Memorial Ross Memorial Skansie Brothers Park Skansie Netshed & House Streams of Change Tacoma City Ten Inch Shell From U.S.S. Maine The Dash Point Dock The Historic Finholm District The Historical Carbonado Saloon The Job Carr Family The Landing The Salmon Life Cycle The Sehmel Family, Pioneers of the Gig Harbor Peninsula Two of Our Best on Mount Everest Two-Story Log House Western State Hospital Historical Cemetery, 1876-1953 Why is the River White? Wilkeson Eagles Building 100th Anniversary "Memory Vessel"
The Palouse region in eastern Washington is known for its distinctive rolling hills and is one of the largest wheat-producing areas in the country.
Washington random facts
Pierce County, located in the state of Washington, has a rich and diverse history. The area that is now Pierce County was initially inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Puyallup, Nisqually, and Squaxin Island tribes. European settlement began in the 1830s when fur traders and missionaries arrived, followed by the establishment of the military Fort Steilacoom in 1849.

The region saw rapid growth and development with the arrival of the Northern Pacific Railway in the 1870s. Tacoma, the county seat, became a bustling port city, attracting industries such as lumber, fishing, and agriculture. It quickly grew into one of the largest cities in the Pacific Northwest, fueled by an influx of immigrants seeking employment opportunities.

However, economic prosperity was interrupted in 1889 when a devastating fire destroyed much of downtown Tacoma. The city rebuilt and continued to thrive, with industry diversifying to include manufacturing, shipbuilding, and trade. In the early 20th century, Tacoma also became known for its vibrant arts and culture scene, with establishments like the Tacoma Art Museum and the Broadway Center for the Performing Arts.

Pierce County played a significant role in World War II, hosting military installations like McChord Air Force Base and Fort Lewis. After the war, the area experienced further growth, suburbanization, and the development of infrastructure. Today, Pierce County is a thriving hub for business, education, and outdoor recreation, with a population of over 900,000 and a diverse economy that encompasses technology, healthcare, and tourism. The county continues to honor its history while embracing modern advancements and envisioning a bright future.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Pierce County, Washington.

  • 1852 - Pierce County is established as one of the original 17 counties in Washington Territory.
  • 1869 - Tacoma, the current county seat, is incorporated.
  • 1873 - The Northern Pacific Railroad reaches Tacoma, bringing economic growth to the county.
  • 1890 - The Tacoma Smelter is built, becoming a major industry but also causing environmental pollution.
  • 1940s - Pierce County experiences significant population growth due to the military presence during World War II.
  • 1950s - Construction of the Tacoma Narrows Bridge connects Pierce County with Kitsap Peninsula.
  • 1990s - Development and economic growth continue, especially around Tacoma and the University of Washington Tacoma campus.
  • 2001 - Pierce County experiences a significant earthquake, causing damage to infrastructure.
  • 2010s - Efforts are made to improve transportation infrastructure, including the expansion of highways and light rail systems.