Historic Fort Steilacoom

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City Listings

City Listing Category

Geographical Address

Duty Station(s)
Public Address
9601 Steilacoom Blvd SW, Lakewood, WA 98498, United States
Postal Code
98498
latitude
47.18
longitude
-122.58

Contact Info

COMM
253-582-5838

Business Info

Operating Hours
  • Mon Closed
  • Tue Closed
  • Wed Closed
  • Thu Closed
  • Fri Closed Closed now
  • Sat Closed
  • Sun 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm

A PLACE TO LEARN AND GROW

How it all came to be…

Fort Steilacoom occupies an important position in the history of early America and the Pacific Northwest. The fort played a significant role in the settling of Washington Territory. Beginning with its establishment in 1849 and ending with its closure in 1868, Fort Steilacoom served as a beacon of American power and promise, promoting the migration of settlers to Washington & securing American interest in the region.

Located in the south Puget Sound, Fort Steilacoom was a part of an early network of settlements including Forts, Camps, and Military Posts which were owned by either the United States or the Hudson’s Bay Company.

TRIBAL LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

Coast Salish Peoples

Historic Fort Steilacoom exists on the traditional lands of the Coast Salish Peoples whose ancestors resided here since time immemorial and have stewarded this land throughout the generations.  We offer our respect to their elders past and present.

Our association acknowledges the complex history of the Fort and its role in the colonization of the area. We are actively working to incorporate the diverse perspectives and experiences of all individuals and communities who interacted with the Fort.

Over the years, historians have researched the history of Fort Steilacoom to provide an accurate account of life at the military post during its period of significance. This research led to an Interpretive Center Exhibit Plan in the 1980s. Volunteers and members of the Association’s Board of Directors have also worked to develop a research library, so further research may benefit the public at large and students of military history. Thanks are due to these individuals that have poured over research material in the quest to recreate a more accurate depiction of the first U.S. Army Post in the Puget Sound Region. As we continue into the future, The Historic Fort Steilacoom Association seeks to interpret and preserve the fort’s remaining structures and remind current and future generations of the fort’s contributions to the history of the United States.

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