ca. 1976. Atlas Foundry by air in 1976. Established in 1899, Atlas's sprawling plant in the 3000 block of South Wilkeson was bordered by South Tacoma Way as well as Wilkeson (on right). Center St. is near the top. The Sprague Ave. overpass is in upper left corner along with offramp leading to Hwy 16. The plant's original buildings are near Wilkeson St. Atlas Foundry has been known as Atlas Castings & Technology since 2002. Photograph ordered by Atlas Foundry & Machine Co.
ca. 1976. Aerial view of longtime Tacoma foundry, Atlas Foundry & Machine Co., taken in the spring or summer of 1976. The company was founded in 1899 and began making iron castings for the Northwest logging industry. After the foundry was purchased by the Long family 30 years later, it began making steel as well as iron. By the 1930's, half of the firm's production was steel castings. Atlas is still in business in the 21st century; it is now known as Atlas Castings & Technology. This aerial photograph of the foundry in 1976 shows the city and roadways have grown in the 77 years since Atlas was founded. Atlas is bordered by Wilkeson (the long street extending vertically on the right) and South Tacoma Way (bottom) with Center St. on top. Stanley Elementary School is at the end of Wilkeson (top of photograph). I-5 freeway is on the bottom of photograph with the exits to So. 38th St. and Hwy 16 above. At the left corner of picture is the 25th St. bridge and Sprague Ave. (www.atlascastings.com)
