The Town of Steilacoom is a historic residential community located on the Puget Sound with panoramic views of the Olympic Mountains and Anderson, Ketron and McNeil islands.  Incorporated in 1854, it holds the distinction of being the first incorporated town in Washington Territory and is often called Washington’s “Town of Firsts”.  With a population of around 6,800, Steilacoom is home to several locally owned restaurants and eateries including Topside Bar and Grill where you can take in the most incredible views of the Puget Sound from their large outdoor patio deck and the Steilacoom Pub and Grill, the perfect place to unwind with family and friends.

Steilacoom is home to 13 public parks including Salter’s Point Park that boasts 500 feet of saltwater shoreline and two stone buildings from the 1930’s.  Many of the parks celebrate the historic significance of the town from the earliest years of Washington State’s history.  The Byrd Mills Park for example commemorates the military road that served as the only escape route from Puyallup Valley to Fort Steilacoom during the Indian War of 1855.

Visitors to Steilacoom who love history can fill their day with stops at the Steilacoom Historical Museum and the Steilacoom Tribal Museum and Cultural Center.  Both offer glimpses into the early years in Washington State.  Rotating exhibits ensure the Steilacoom Historical museum continues to stay fresh.  There is also a Historical Community Garden. The garden logo features the “Steilacoom Flower,” Lithophragma parviflorum. The Town’s name is derived from the indigenous tribal dialect word that translates loosely as “place of the pink flower.”

“The value the Town places in our history is exemplified in the Town’s Vision Statement which is:  Steilacoom; A peaceful town on the Sound with a rich historical past and a secure future,” said Paul Loveless, Steilacoom Town Administrator.  He added, “Our Mission Statement further supports this and is: Town of Steilacoom: Preserve our historic heritage and manage economic and residential growth through intelligent planning.  Provide superior services and continue to encourage citizen participation and environmental stewardship.”

Adjacent to Joint Base Lewis Mc Chord, Steilacoom is a bedroom community to many people employed by the base.  This relationship strengthens the bond between the military and the pride felt throughout the Steilacoom community.  According to Dick Muri, Mayor of Steilacoom, “A significant portion of our town residents are active duty, retired or are military veterans. who have chosen to live in Steilacoom for its convenient location, great schools, nice housing, and it is safe from crime.  Our streets are well maintained, maybe the best in the county.”

Community pride is alive and well in Steilacoom as demonstrated through the active volunteerism in the schools and at the many community events including the 4^th of July Festival, the Salmon Bake, and the Apple Squeeze to name a few.

The Pierce County Ferry system uses Steilacoom as a main port to transfer people to and from Anderson Island and Ketron Island.  Operating a vehicle and passenger ferry, the routes are run year-round with additional trips in the summer months.

This quaint town is safe, quiet and picturesque.  Learn more about Steilacoom HERE