Vanishing Tacoma

Tacoma, like most cities across the nation, has changed its appearance over time, creating many different urban landscapes. This phenomenon was apparent throughout the area as landowners, developers, community organizations, and government agencies all contributed to the city's growth and transformation. The changing landscape was further impacted by fires, earthquakes, and other acts of nature, resulting in a rich mosaic of old and new. The history of Vanishing Tacoma illustrates the city's past and present landscapes and honors the historic properties that still remain.

Author Caroline Gallacci is cofounder of the Tacoma Historical Society and the Heritage League of Pierce County and has written numerous works covering the history of the Pacific Northwest region. Vanishing Tacoma is the fifth title she has written for the Images of America series. This unique collection of vintage photographs was drawn from the collections of coauthor Ron Karabaich and local historian Thomas R. Stenger, as well as the Tacoma Public Library. In this history, Gallacci provides a brief journey through the streets of Tacoma, showing the many reasons why the city's landscape changed over time.