Each May, the National Trust for Historic Preservation encourages local communities to celebrate National Historic Preservation Month. The City of Tacoma is excited to announce this year’s Historic Preservation Month theme of “Tacoma’s Maritime History: Rails to Sails.” Events in 2017 encourage residents of all ages, cultures and neighborhoods to show their love for Tacoma’s heritage and historical sites.

Event Schedule for May 2017:

– Historic Preservation Month Proclamation: Tuesday, May 2, from 4:45  – 5:30 p.m., at the Tacoma Municipal Building in Council Chambers (747 Market St., first floor)

– Historic Preservation Month Kick Off: Historic Tacoma’s Program on Repurposing Existing Buildings on Friday, May 5, from 7 – 9 p.m., at Feast Arts Center (1402 S. 11th St.)

– Historic Homes of Tacoma Tour: Saturday, May 6 and Sunday, May 7, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

– The Amazing Preservation Race: Sunday, May 7, at 11 a.m., starting at University of Washington Tacoma campus stairs (1754 Pacific Ave.)

– Historic Preservation Month Reception and Awards: Saturday, May 20, from 1 – 3 p.m., at Slavonian Hall (2306 N. 30th St.)

– Cycles on the Foss: Environmental History Bike Tour: Friday, May 26, from 5:15 – 7 p.m., at the Foss Waterway Seaport (705 Dock St.)

In addition to celebrating Tacoma’s heritage, the City’s award-winning Historic Preservation efforts provide tools and resources to preserve the community character derived from Tacoma’s rich architectural legacy. This includes oversight of the historic districts and Tacoma Register of Historic Places, as well as increasing awareness of historic preservation issues in Tacoma.

As the State considers a National Maritime Heritage Area ranging from Grays Harbor to Whatcom County, Tacoma’s waterfront will continue to be a focus for Historic Preservation programming. Additionally, in July, high school students from around the State will participate in the Youth Heritage Project, a five-day overnight opportunity to learn about Tacoma’s maritime heritage.  New artwork on the Prairie Line Trail, which will connect downtown Tacoma to the Foss Waterway, will also be installed later this year, and there is a collaborative roster of walking tours that invites the community to learn more about Tacoma’s history at cityoftacoma.org/WalkingTours.

“This year, we’re continuing to partner with Tacoma’s cultural and heritage organizations to put together a great slate of programming,” Historic Preservation Coordinator Lauren Hoogkamer. “We want everyone to see how Tacoma’s history and culture is an important asset to our city.”

  – City of Tacoma