Identity elements
Reference code
Name and location of repository
Level of description
Item
Title
D32837-14
Date(s)
- 1948-04-11 (Creation)
Extent
Name of creator
(1919-1980)
Content and structure elements
Scope and content
Tacoma's totem pole in Fireman's Park was commissioned by W.F. Sheard and Chester Thorne. It was carved by Native Americans from Sitka, Alaska in the Haida tribal style. Then it was presented to the city in 1903, it stood 103 feet tall. This totem pole represents the history of the Eagle Tribe of Alaska. The top most figure of a totem pole would be the special animal god (eagle, seal, salmon or bear or even the sun) from which the tribe claimed descent and a particular protection. The eagle on top of Tacomas pole is "Skanskwin", the crest of the Nexa'da people. (Tacoma Ledger, 12/14/1924; TNT, Page R. Hosmer, 3/16/1946; TNT, 12/6/1953)
Tacoma Totem Pole (Tacoma); Totem poles--Tacoma; Skanskwin; Eagles; Sculpture--Tacoma;