1961 Map of Tacoma South

About this map

The Puyallup River flows through the northeastern corner of this area, marking the industrial and residential transition of South Tacoma during the mid-twentieth century. The landscape is a mix of dense residential grids and significant institutional footprints, including the sprawling campus of Pacific Lutheran University in Parkland and the massive grounds of Mc Chord Air Force Base to the south. The expansion of suburban retail is evident at the Tacoma Mall Shopping Center, while traditional community landmarks like Lincoln High Sch and Holy Rosary Sch anchor the older neighborhoods. This survey captures a moment when established rail lines, such as the Union Pacific and Burlington Northern, shared space with a rapidly developing network of major arterials including Pacific Ave and Portland Ave, illustrating the region's evolution from a rail-dependent hub to a highway-centered urban corridor.