Oral history interview with Tacoma resident Deborah Ranniger conducted by dindria barrow on September 20, 2022. In this interview, Deborah tells us how the landscape of Tacoma with its evergreen color and specifically the sight of Mount Rainier made her decide to live here at 10 years old. Deborah tells her family’s story of fleeing from Eastern and Western Europe to escape persecution. Deborah shares her journey from Seattle and Kent to Tacoma based on the burgeoning art scene. Deborah has recently published a memoir about her father and his influence on her life called, “Against the Current: A Conscientious Objector During World War II and the Daughter He Inspired.”

Oral history interview of Susan Robbins Kimbel conducted by dindria barrow on January 21, 2023, as part of the Archiving North End Communities event located at the Wheelock library branch.

Oral history interview of Gail I. Rocheleau conducted by dindria barrow on April 8th, 2023, as part of the Archiving Northeast Communities event located at the Mottet library branch.

Mrs. Catherine Egan was reading to the second graders at Lister Elementary. The storytelling was a part of the program "Reading is FUNdamental," organized by the American Association of University Women. The program's purpose was to encourage children to read after school students would attend the storytelling and then choose a book to bring home. Photo by staff member Bob Rudsit.

Back of photo: School, Lister Elementary
Photograph by Bob Rudsit
Feb 15 1974
Tacoma News Tribune

Back of photo:
“Listen, Mom”
School, Lister Elementary
June 3, 1977

“Low enrollments and inefficient structures may force Tacoma to close some schools, rebuild or remodel others.” Lister elementary was expensive to upkeep and faced several problems. It was 300 students short of its total capacity of 650. The school was initially built as a community center, and gymnasium and additions were later added. The different elements fit together awkwardly. Photo by staff member Warren Anderson.

Back of photo:
School, Lister Elementary
Feb 14 1982

Photo description from Vanna Sing:

When taken: 1980s and 2000s
Where taken: Eastside, Salishan
What memory is contained in these photos? Vanna Sing's childhood in Salishan and Eastside; Growing up in Salishan, spiritual healing. 43 year old survivor from the country of Cambodia. Roots are from SE Asia, Cambodia, Thai, and Laos. Our family escaped the Khmer Rouge in 1978 In July 1979, we entered United States. Our sponsors were from Mineral Wells, Texas. Trying to adapt to the American culture was a struggle. Through the word of mouth, Tacoma, Washington was the place to be. 15 families migrated to Tacoma, WA. We first arrived in Hilltop, Tacoma, around St. Joseph hospital area. We spent a year here. Tacoma Housing Authority supported refugees by providing rental assistance. Department of Social and Healthy Services gave us TANF, food stamp, and medical.

The following description is written from Vanya Poulsen:

Who is in the photograph?
Mother ran the board, help serve individuals w/ mental illness/PTSD

What memory is contained in this photo?
Family history of group home
-Lasted over 50 years

Oral history interview of Mary Sudar conducted by dindria barrow on January 21, 2023, as part of the Archiving North End Communities event located at the Wheelock library branch.

Bryan Johnson from Lister Elementary School introduces a film he made in 2003 with his 5th grade students.