Small dachshund of Mrs. Clara Lea sunbathing on brick path.

Two young boys stand next to a dog that is harnessed to a model circus wagon in this April, 1929, photograph. There is a pup (maybe two) in the wagon. Note on original negative sleeve says, "Newman builds circus wagon for boy & dog parade. Made at Kuehn residence near Lakeview." Bowen # 290-091

The first Thursday in April, 1926, was a busy day for telephone number Main 4515. All day the phone rang for "Mr. Towser," "Mr. Barking," and "Mr. K.Nine." Lee Kane took messages for the missing Messrs. advising callers that they would call back shortly. Mr. Kane was a Tacoma police officer stationed at the dog pound. And the missing Messrs.? They were all one entity: a regal pooch named Mr. Barker. The first Thursday in April, 1926? April Fools Day. Here a patient Mr. Barker "speaks" to a bewildered caller. (TNT 4-1-26, p. 1) (Bowen 26224)

Along with daffodils and April showers, children and their pets have been a sure sign of spring in the Puget Sound area for generations. Photographer Chapin Bowen captured young Bobby David with his beloved dog, "Rags," seated in front of the Rialto Theater in 1931. Bob and Rags attended Tacoma's pet parade, held April 9, 1931.

From September of 1942 until the end of March, 1947, 713-15 Commerce housed USO #2, a club reserved for the entertainment of servicemen and women of color. One of the unique activities in the club took place each year during "Be Kind to Animals" week. Servicemen assisted in the planning and production of a dog show with the pets of local children. Ribbons were presented to the best in each catagory. In this photograph dated September 16, 1945, unidentified children and servicemen pose with a variety of dogs at the club. (photograph by F.L. Powell of Tacoma)