June 2007: Yep, it's finally happening. The oldest grouping of historic buildings in the area is being saved, even as you read this. Click here to learn more.
You can sign up for City Councilman Walter Neary's e-newsletter here. The newsletter often has news about local history and events.
Here are some events at Historic Fort Steilacoom, Lakewood's oldest museum:
June 17: The Evolution of the McClellan Saddle; David Scroggins, presenter
Sept. 21-23: The Second Annual living History Immersion Event, coordinated by Lawrence Bateman, John McPherson and Gideon Pete.
Dec. 8: 4-8 p.m.,Christmas at the Fort. (Walter's humble opinion: this is a highlight of the year because dozens of volunteers in period clothing make history come to life in the candlelight.)
The Lakewood Historical Society has opened a museum with a large collection of displays at 6211 Mount Tacoma Drive (across from Columbia Bank). Summer hours are 11-4 Wednesdays through Saturdays. Upcoming events:
June 19: 7 p.m.; Lakewood Playhouse.
History of Lakewood theater, with backstage tours
Aug. 21: 7 p.m.. Mountain View Memorial Park. The history of Mountain View Funeral Home and Memorial Park, founded 1915 by the Thompson Family.
Sept. 18: Tentative, history of Fort Steilacoom Park; more info TBA.
There are two members-only events (so you should join!): a July tour of a historic garden, and a November tour of Thornewood Castle.
Be sure to also visit the Web site of historic Lakewold Gardens for their latest listing of events.
(Because schedules may change, feel free to confirm events directly with the groups. Local museum and historical society web sites, including this one, are often maintained by volunteers and there may be a delay in updates)
Co-authors Steve Dunkelberger and Walter Neary are pleased to welcome you to this site dedicated to Lakewood history.
We welcome your comments about the book, particularly your corrections and additions. This book is a first draft of Lakewood history, and we look forward to writing more about this subject. The Lakewood Historical Society as well as other local history groups are working hard to collect more information about local history.
P.O. Box 99702
Lakewood, Wa 98499-0702