Join us for fun and informative presentations about the Port of Tacoma and the maritime industry! These engaging talks are free and open to the public, taking place at the Grand Cinema (606 Fawcett Ave, Tacoma, WA 98402) in downtown Tacoma. It's a fantastic way to learn about the Port and understand how our working waterfront supports the international supply chain and boosts the local economy.
The Port of Tacoma:
A Journey Through Time
Rod Koon, Historical Researcher/Writer, Port of Tacoma (Ret)
Thursday, April 3, 6:30 -8:00 p.m.
The presentation will begin in the late 1800s and covers some of the highlights and milestones that have shaped the development of the City of Tacoma, the Port of Tacoma and our Puget Sound region for more than a century. You will learn how the Port was created by Pierce County voters in 1918, enjoy rare film footage of a 1920s monorail cargo handling system, how shipbuilding in the Tacoma Tideflats and Port helped support our nation’s World War II efforts, how the Port emerged as a leading “world class” container port, and more! Rod will be available after the presentation for questions and is bringing along several historic Port of Tacoma artifacts and ephemera to share with the audience.
Puget Sound Pilots
David Melin, Port Captain, Puget Sound Pilots
Thursday, May 15, 6:30 - 8:00 p.m.
Puget Sound Pilots (PSP) are highly skilled, specially trained ship captains who board oil tankers, cargo vessels and cruise ships to guide them safely through Puget Sound waters. For more than 100 years, PSP members have ensured against the loss of lives, loss of or damage to property and vessels, and protected the marine environment by maintaining efficient and competent pilotage service on Washington's inland waters within the Puget Sound Pilotage District. Come hear Captain David Melin speak about the organization, its storied history, and remarkable accomplishments.
Port Captain:
Foss Yesterday and Today
Drew Kerlee, Port Captain, Foss Maritime
Thursday, June 12, 6:30-8:00 p.m.
Join us for this fascinating presentation about Foss Maritime and navigating the Port of Tacoma as a Port Captain! Foss Maritime got started over a hundred years ago right here in Tacoma. Many things have been lost to time since then, but tugboats at the Port of Tacoma are still going strong. While we don't look like we did twenty years ago, let alone 125 years ago when Thea Foss started, we are still moving container ships, assisting tankers, and carrying out the essential tasks to keep Tacoma and the entire PNW economy afloat.