This one goes back, way back… way way back…. to when it all started. July 16 1909!
It was the Alaska-Yukon-Pacific Exposition or the (A.Y.P.) as the locals called it… and it was time for Tacoma to shine!
July 16 1909 was the day Seattle (and the world) celebrated Tacoma Day. Now this was big news back then (still is pretty big news these days , all things consider) because of the relationship between Seattle and Tacoma and the fact that at the time the entire world was watching the Exposition. Imagine the worlds largest TED talk combined with the Super bowl and Comcon, and you’ll have an idea of the importance the World Exposition.
These were high times for our region. People were moving out West to find riches and build a life in the new world. Seattle, Tacoma and Olympia were in a heated battle over the locations of where the University of Washington, the State Capital and where the headquarters for the Northern Pacific Railway would be located. Although, Seattle got the University of Washington the city fiercely wanted the Northern Pacific Railway and was “disappointing” to say the least when Tacoma was selected.
Fast forward a few years to the AYP Exposition which was a four month long event and an opportunity for both Seattle and Tacoma to show the world that they were (and are) world class cities. Seattle made a great effort to include Tacoma in the AYP realizing the benefit to the event and City. For Tacoma is was an event to promote what life is all about in our great city. As such, Tacoma City leadership came up with the motto “You’ll Like Tacoma”
Now that they had their slogan they needed a way to make it last. They decided to construct and erect the “worlds longest shore line illuminated sign” and display it for all to see on the shore of Lake Union. You have to love the grit on those guys, to light up a sign on the shore of the host city of a Worlds Expo.
Not only do the people of this community continue to “Like” Tacoma but we “LOVE” Tacoma and are proud of the history, culture and grit that comes with it.
If you LOVE Tacoma , let me know why by posting a comment below.
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