Two Cheney Lumber Company planes are flying east on the north side of Mount Rainier in front of Willis Wall and the Winthrop Glacier. Glaciers are among the most conspicuous and dynamic geologic features on Mount Rainier. They erode the volcanic cone and are important sources of stream flow for several rivers, including some that provide water for hydroelectric power and irrigation. They appear rigid and unchanging but in fact they deform and flow continuously. Maximum speeds occur near the surface and along the center line of the glacier. During May 1970 Nisqually Glacier was measured moving as fast as 29 inches per day. TPL-8252

Rainier, Mount (Wash.); Glaciers; Cheney Lumber Co. (Tacoma); Airplanes;

Eleven sailors from the U.S. Naval Station in Tacoma volunteered their services in October of 1952 to help finish the work on the Living War Memorial which was dedicated to the war dead of Pierce County. They set posts and prepared logs for the guard rail which bordered the site. The dedication of the Memorial Park, located at the south end of the east approach to the Tacoma Narrows Bridge, took place on Armistice Day 1952. In February 2003 the park was demolished to make way for the new Narrows Bridge; a new, larger War Memorial Park was dedicated on May 13, 2006. (TNT, 10/26/1952, p.C-13) TPL-9078

Parks--Tacoma--1950-1960; Memorial Park (Tacoma); Tacoma Narrows Bridge (Tacoma); Bridges--Tacoma; Sailors--Tacoma;

A six-foot square piece of Wilkeson sandstone, natural to Washington state, was used for the plaque which was installed at the site of the Living War Memorial. The plaque is the center of the 20-foot stone monument at the Living War Memorial, Memorial Park, located at the south end of the east approach of the Tacoma Narrows Bridge. Checking the details of the plans before sand blasting the lettering are Don Wahlstrom, kneeling, and George M. Robinson and his father, Earl M. Robinson. (TNT, 11/2/1952, p.A-15)

Parks--Tacoma--1950-1960; Memorial Park (Tacoma); Monuments & memorials--Tacoma; Wahlstrom, Don; Robinson, George M.; Robinson, Earl M.;

The group of bricklayers and hod carriers who donated their labor to lay the stones for the Living War Memorial, Memorial Park, are enjoying a break with Olympia beer. The approach to the Tacoma Narrows Bridge can be seen behind them. TPL-8405

Parks--Tacoma--1950-1960; Memorial Park (Tacoma); Bricklayers--Tacoma;

Members of the steering committee were drawn from virtually every civic, service, fraternal and military group in Tacoma to plan for the completion and dedication of the Living War Memorial site. The two and one-half acre site overlooking the Narrows Bridge was given to the Young Men's Business Club by Harold A. Woodworth and was then deeded to the city. L-R, Lt. L.C. Bloom, R.G. Anderson, John C. Migdula, M.J. McCaslin, Claude V. Munsey, Norton Gordon, and Leon Kleiner. Members of the committee not present are Joseph LaMontague and Wilfred Brown. (TNT, 9/28/1952, p.A-12 & 11/9/1952, p.1) TPL-9079

Parks--Tacoma--1950-1960; Memorial Park (Tacoma); Tacoma Narrows Bridge (Tacoma); Bridges--Tacoma; Monuments & memorials--Tacoma;

The dedication of Tacoma's War Memorial Park, located at the south end of the east approach of the Tacoma Narrows Bridge, took place on Armistice Day 1952. The 2 1/2 - acre park was built with volunteer labor from materials donated by the businesses, clubs, and citizens of Tacoma/Pierce County. Among those who generously donated to the creation of the park were Puyallup valley farmers who donated 15,000 flower bulbs; the Cascade Pole Company which donated an 80 ft. flagpole; and the Tacoma Bricklayers and Hod Carriers' Union that built the 20 ft. stone monument on their own time. A plaque on the wall stated: "Dedicated in honored memory of those who gave their lives for our country". In February of 2003 the park was demolished to make way for the new Narrows Bridge.

Parks--Tacoma--1950-1960; Memorial Park (Tacoma); Tacoma Narrows Bridge (Tacoma); Bridges--Tacoma; Dedications--Tacoma; Monuments & memorials--Tacoma;

ca. 1953. Snow-capped Mount Rainier is a majestic sight in 1953 as it looms over thousands of acres of timber growth. Logging companies would be permitted to harvest some of these trees.

Rainier, Mount (Wash.); Forests--Washington; Trees;

ca. 1953. Logs are in the process of being loaded onto a Ludtke Company truck during a logging operation on Mount Rainier. Branches have already been removed from the trees and logs previously cut into manageable sections. One man stands on the truck's bed to maneuver the massive logs into place in this 1953 photograph.

Rainier, Mount (Wash.); Lumber industry; Logs;

ca. 1953. Logging companies brought donkey engines out to the locations where timber was being felled. View of logging operation on Mount Rainier in 1953 shows downed timber already cut into smaller sections. There are steel cables attached to the wooden spar so that the downed timber can be pulled to the landing for loading onto trucks or railroad cars for transfer to a log dump or mill. Later these spar trees would be replaced by portable steel spars. TPL-3240

Rainier, Mount (Wash.); Lumber industry--1950-1960; Donkey engines; Logs;

This was the view of Tacoma from the top of the Medical Arts Building (now the Tacoma Municipal Building), 747 Market Street, in September of 1953. Looking toward the southeast, Mount Rainier dominates the horizon. The tall building below Mt. Rainier, near the center of the picture, is the Washington Building, 1019 Pacific Avenue, with a giant Mobil Gas sign on top. To the far left is the Murray Morgan Bridge, providing access to the many businesses on Tacoma's tideflats. TPL-9496

Rainier, Mount (Wash.); Cityscapes--Tacoma--1950-1960; Business districts--Tacoma--1950-1960;

Aerial view of Tacoma, downtown buildings and Eleventh street bridge with waterways and Tideflats beyond the city and Mt. Rainier in the background. The view is looking Northeast from approximately 8th and Tacoma Ave. S. TPL-5875

Rainier, Mount (Wash.); Cityscapes--Tacoma--1950-1960; Business districts--Tacoma--1950-1960;

Tacoma looking Northeast from the Medical Arts building with waterways and Tideflats beyond the city and Mt. Rainier in the background.

Rainier, Mount (Wash.); Cityscapes--Tacoma--1950-1960; Business districts--Tacoma--1950-1960;

Point Defiance Zoo, for the Metropolitan Park Board animal report. Exterior view of the animal house. This appears to be the lions' grotto. Citizens of Tacoma held events to raise the funds to erect the $104,000 animal house. The modern facilities opened in November of 1953.

Point Defiance Zoo (Tacoma); Point Defiance Park (Tacoma); Lions; Cages--Tacoma; Zoos--Tacoma--1950-1960; Zoo animals;

Raising the flag of the United States at the Living War Memorial at the foot of the Narrows Bridge for Memorial Day, 1954 were seven representatives of Tacoma's young people: (l to r) Dan Mackle, Sea Scout; Larry Huff, Boy Scout; William Hickok, Cub Scout; Karen Sell, Girl Scout; Valerie Wozniak, Camp Fire Girl; Linda Leith, Brownie Girl Scout and Marlys Farrington, Bluebird Camp Fire Girl. The flag of the United States flew at half mast throughout the nation in memory of those who gave their lives for our freedom. The Living War Memorial, on the south side of the east end of the Narrows Bridge, was dedicated on Armistice Day, 1952. It was moved due to the construction of the New Narrows Bridge, and a new memorial park was recently completed. (TNT 5/30/1954 p. D-1)

Parks--Tacoma--1950-1960; Memorial Park (Tacoma); Tacoma Narrows Bridge (Tacoma); Flag salutes--Tacoma; Flagpoles--Tacoma; Boy Scouts (Tacoma)--1950-1960; Girl Scouts (Tacoma); Sea Scouts (Tacoma); Camp Fire Girls (Tacoma);

Point Defiance PTA Carnival. Four committee members gathered around a wooden AV cart and examine 16mm film in preparation for the November 12, 1954 Point Defiance School carnival's entertainment. From left were: Mrs. Arnold Wentlandt, co-chairperson; William Skillings, PTA member; Mrs. Ned Krilich, co-chairperson; and Mrs. Charles Gray, PTA member. "Carnival Time" was the theme of the carnival to be held at Point Defiance School located at North 45th & Visscher. (TNT 11-8-1954, p. 6-alt. photograph)

Point Defiance School (Tacoma); Parent-Teacher Association (Tacoma); Wentlandt, Arnold--Family; Skillings, William; Krilich, Ned--Family; Gray, Charles--Family; Projectors;

In August of 1955, two unidentified young girls were photographed as they gazed up at Northern Pacific Engine No. 1364 at Point Defiance Park. The 4-6-0 type engine was built by the Baldwin Locomotive Works in 1902, and for the first 25 years of its service it was used to assist the North Coast Limited over the Cascades. It was retired in 1953 and donated by the Northern Pacific Railroad to the Metropolitan Park Board. It was on display on a specially installed section of track just south of Funland at Point Defiance from 1954 to the mid-1970s. The Yakima Valley Rail and Steam Association is refurbishing the antique engine in Toppenish. (TNT 1/27/1954, pg. 11 & Toppenish Review 8/8/2001)

Point Defiance Park (Tacoma); Railroad locomotives;

Cyclone fence surrounding Engine # 1364 on display at Point Defiance Park. In 1868, the US government claimed Point Defiance as a military reservation. The land laid unused for 20 years until 1888, when Congress allowed the land to be turned into a park. In 1905, Tacoma gained full control of the park with the military only reserving the right to repossess in a national emergency. From the beginning, the park was developed in a manner that would preserve its natural state while accommodating the public. The park saw an influx of federal funds and work force through the projects of the 30's. Point Defiance received this 1902 series locomotive from the Northern Pacific Railroad.

Point Defiance Park (Tacoma); Railroad locomotives;

Cyclone fencing around the lions' grotto at Point Defiance Zoo. The money for modern zoo habitats was raised by the citizens of Tacoma during public fund raisers to replace antiquated housing. When it was suggested that Tacoma's poorly cared for and ailing lions be moved to Seattle's Woodland Park Zoo, a "Save Our Lions" fund drive commenced. The citizens of Tacoma donated $12,000, including change from school children and funds from civic and social clubs. The $104,000 Pt. Defiance Animal House opened in November of 1953, helped along by a special levy. A plaque read "This zoo made possible by the goodwill of the citizens of Tacoma." Point Defiance Zoo had three lions. The best known was Norma, a 300 pound good natured cat best remembered for riding in an open convertible with former Mayor John Anderson during a parade. The other two were Norma's mother Alice and Sammy, a male recently purchased from the Clyde Beatty circus. (TNT 8/14/1955, Pacific Parade magazine, TNT 11/22/1953)

Point Defiance Zoo (Tacoma); Point Defiance Park (Tacoma); Lions; Cages--Tacoma; Zoos--Tacoma--1950-1960; Zoo animals;

Snow plows have cleared one of the roads at Mount Rainier National Park, banking it higher than the roof of the Richards paneled station wagon at the side of the road. The surrounding trees appear to be dead, possibly from the Kautz Creek flood.

Mount Rainier National Park (Wash.); Snow; Roads;

1956 Stock footage, Richards Studio, scenic views. Majestic Mount Rainier towers over the fertile valleys surrounding it. The valley is patchworked with fences separating the livestock and dotted with barns. Tall evergreens line the hills on both sides of the valley.

Rainier, Mount (Wash.); Valleys--Washington; Livestock; Agriculture;

Panoramic view from home; ordered by Mrs. Ed Geddes. The 1956 City Directory lists Edward & Allie Geddes as residing at 3404 No. Union Ave. Mr. Geddes worked for Weyerhauser. In the photograph, Mt. Rainier can be seen over the top of a hill covered with larger homes.

Rainier, Mount (Wash.);

1956 Richards Studio stock footage. A man in a cowboy hat leans against a split rail fence dwarfed by the awesome bulk of Mt. Rainier in the background. The snow covered mountain looms over the pastureland, forming the perfect backdrop for this picture.

Rainier, Mount (Wash.); Fences;

Miss Alaska, Nina Whaley, visited the Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium on May 19, 1964, as part of a busy schedule promoting Alaska's summer tourist season. She is pictured above (center with large purse) smiling as she gazes at the outdoor seal and otter exhibit. TRUEBLOOD 1064

Whaley, Nina; Beauty contestants; Guests--Tacoma--1960-1970; Point Defiance Zoo (Tacoma); Aquariums--Tacoma;

This seal has scrambled out of the water in order to grab a tasty snack from visiting Alaskans, Mr. and Mrs. Chester Seveck and Nina Whaley, reigning Miss Alaska (far right). The trio were personal representatives of Alaska governor William Egan who traveled to Tacoma to aid Tacoma's Chamber of Commerce campaign to promote Alaska's tourist industry. The Sevecks were professional entertainers and guides. TRUEBLOOD 1064 (TNT 5-21-64, B-4)

Whaley, Nina; Beauty contestants; Seveck, Chester; Seveck, Chester--Family; Guests--Tacoma--1960-1970; Point Defiance Zoo (Tacoma); Aquariums--Tacoma; Seals (Animals);

Miss Alaska, Nina Whaley, (third from front) and Mr. and Mrs. Chester Seveck visited the Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium on May 19, 1964. The Alaskans were in town to promote their state's summer tourist season and had just arrived that morning. They are pictured above wearing fur parkas while standing in front of the polar bear exhibit. TRUEBLOOD 1064 (TNT 5-19-64, p. 1-article)

Whaley, Nina; Seveck, Chester; Seveck, Chester--Family; Beauty contestants; Guests--Tacoma--1960-1970; Point Defiance Zoo (Tacoma); Polar bears--Washington;

An unidentified family exits Never Never Land at Point Defiance in June 1965. The popular park attraction first opened in 1964. Alfred Pettersen, who also designed "Wooded Wonderland" in Victoria, British Columbia, was the first manager. The two facilities were said to be the only two "enchanted forests" on the continent. Sadly, Tacoma's enchanted forest has been plagued by petty vandalism over the years.

Parks--Tacoma; Point Defiance Park (Tacoma); Never Never Land (Tacoma); Amusement parks--Tacoma;

Opening of visitor's center on Mt. Rainier. Senator Henry Jackson, a principal speaker at the September 3, 1966, event, is being interviewed while seated on a rock buttress. The dedication drew a large crowd of visitors and dignitaries, including the senator, Congressman Floyd Hicks, Director of the National Park Service George B. Hartzog, Jr., and Tacoma city manager, David Rowlands. The visitors center would later be renamed in honor of Senator Jackson. (TNT 9-4-66, p. 1-article; TNT 9-4-66 magazine p. 8, p. 17-articles)

Rainier, Mount (Wash.); Visitors' centers; Jackson, Henry M., 1912-1983; Legislators--Washington--1960-1970; Interviews;

Opening of visitor's center on Mt. Rainier in 1966. Crowd of people at reception. The official opening took place on September 3, 1966, and drew many visitors and a host of dignitaries including Congressman Floyd Hicks, Director of the National Park Service George B. Hartzog, Jr., Tacoma City Manager David Rowlands, Pierce County Commissioner Harry Sprinker and Senator Henry M. Jackson. Senator Jackson, a principal speaker at the dedication, indicated that the facility was the largest of its kind in the federal parks system. The building at Paradise was circular and built of reinforced concrete with a pre-cast frame. 65-foot roof beams rested on Y-columns. It had a glassed-in third story observation deck. It was designed by George Wimberly of Honolulu who worked along with associate Gerald Allison of the Tacoma firm of McGuire & Muri. (TNT 9-4-66, p. 1-article; TNT 9-4-66 magazine, p. 8, p. 17-articles)

Rainier, Mount (Wash.); Receptions; Visitors' centers;

Opening of visitor's center on Mt. Rainier. Senator Henry M. Jackson and his sister, Carol and Lester Nulby (sic) are photographed along with an unidentified woman at the official September 3, 1966, opening of the new Paradise Day Lodge. Senator Jackson is second to the left in the group of four. He was the main speaker that day. The building would later be renamed for Senator Jackson. (TNT 9-4-66, p. 1-article; TNT 9-4-66 magazine, p. 8, p. 17-articles)

Rainier, Mount (Wash.); Visitors' centers; Jackson, Henry M., 1912-1983; Legislators--Washington--1960-1970;

John Rutter, Supt. of Mt. Rainier National Park (left) and George B. Hartzog, Jr., head of the National Park Service posed together on September 3, 1966, at the official opening of the new visitor's center on Mt. Rainier. Hartzog, in suit, has his hand on Rutter's shoulder. At that time the building was called the Paradise Day Lodge. Senator Henry M. Jackson was the main speaker at the opening and in 1987 the building was renamed in his honor. (TNT 9-4-66, p. 1-article; TNT magazine 9-4-66, p. 8, 17-articles)

Rainier, Mount (Wash.); Visitors' centers; Rutter, John; Hartzog, George B.;