Object Record
Images
Additional Images [3]
Metadata
Object Name |
Building, Public |
Collection |
Metro Parks Tacoma - Permanent Collection |
Date |
c. 1936 |
Description |
Wapato Park was one of the earliest public parks in Tacoma, although Metro Parks did not begin acquiring property around the lake until 1920. The Wapato bathhouse was built in the 1930s during a major Works Progress Administration (WPA) revitalization project. The WPA relief workers not only constructed this combination boathouse and bathhouse, but also built ball fields, sandy beaches, bridges, picnic shelters, and cleared roads, pathways, and dredged mud from the lake bottom. Workers also planted cherry trees, roses, and an alpine garden, and added a charming pergola and dignified stone pillars to the park's entrance. On opening day, June 15, 1938, the Tacoma Daily Ledger declared, "Old Swimming Hole of Half Century Ago Blossoms Out to Take Place Among Major Attractions of Tacoma." Two thousand people attended the opening. Originally, the bathhouse was designed to house toilets and dressing rooms with showers, and included a boathouse on the lower floor. Today, the main floor is open space and restrooms, with a covered deck area forming the second floor. The deck is enclosed on the ends but open on the long sides. This historic building is used for park programs and rentals. |
Location |
Wapato Park |
Object Number |
WAP-001 |
Web link |
Metro Parks Tacoma, Wapato Park |