The Small Town In Washington That’s Loaded With Fascinating History
Steilacoom is a small coastal town in Pierce County. If you’ve never heard of it, you’re not alone. Only about 6,300 people call it home, and while it’s a charming place, it doesn’t have any major tourist attractions. That being said, Steilacoom is one of the most historically significant towns in the Pacific Northwest. It’s also absolutely beautiful.
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But the general belief is that it was named after the Steilacoom tribe itself, which makes sense since the tribe had a village in the Tacoma area.
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This makes it the oldest incorporated town in Washington.
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The town has several territorial corporations. One is the Oberlin Congregational Church, incorporated on April 27, 1883 with a mere eight members. The first sawmill and the first jail in Washington were also built here.
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A historic district was established in 1974, and it was placed on the National Register of Historic Places the following year. There are 68 contributing properties.
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he Steilacoom Historical Museum Association, which was incorporated in 1970, is dedicated to preserving every part of the town's past.
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The views from Sunnyside Beach Park really can't be beat. It's really no wonder that those who call Steilacoom home tend to love it.
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And all it takes is one visit to Steilacoom to fall in love.
Do you have a favorite small town in Washington?
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Steilacoom, WA, USA