You may know The Maltese Falcon and its fictional detective Sam Spade, later played in the film version by Humphrey Bogart. But did you know that Tacoma was the inspiration for Dashiell Hammett, the author of the classic detective novel?
For City Club’s December dinner program, Tacoma historian Michael Sullivan will take attendees back in time to the Tacoma that Hammett found when he arrived here in 1920 — a city that inspired the writer’s hard-boiled detectives, corrupt criminals, and dark streets. According to Sullivan, The Maltese Falcon is a parable set in Tacoma, and what happens is a reworking of Hammett’s experience here.
Join City Club Dec. 5 for an unusual look at a bygone era of Tacoma through the eyes of this American literary icon.
Sullivan has been practicing and teaching historic preservation in the Northwest for over 20 years. He directed preservation policy for the City of Tacoma during the restoration of Union Station and the development of UWT, among other projects. He is also an adjunct faculty member at the UW Department of Architecture.
The City Club event will be held at Wheelock Student Center Rotunda, University of Puget Sound, on Weds., Dec. 5, at 6pm. Cost is $17 for members, $22 for guests
Advance reservations are required, and can be made by calling (253) 272-9561. For more information, visit http://www.cityclubtacoma.org .
Founded in 1984, City Club of Tacoma is a nonprofit membership organization that brings people together to explore issues and ideas affecting the South Sound community. Membership is open to anyone seeking to share ideas and listen to others’ views.