Aug. 21 talk in Lakewood begins commemoration of 175th anniversary of the Army in Washington

The next Lakewood Community Coffeehouse with Mayor Jason Whalen is Wednesday, Aug. 21, 2024 at 6 p.m.

Mayor Whalen is excited to welcome former Lakewood City Council member and Historic Fort Steilacoom 2020-24 board president Walter Neary. Neary will share about Historic Fort Steilacoom, which recognizes its 175th birthday this year.

As part of his presentation, Neary will have newly acquired artifacts to show.

“I’m delighted that we begin a year of commemoration of the 175th anniversary of the founding of the fort with an event hosted by the City of Lakewood,” Neary said. “The military came here to make U.S. government possible in Washington Territory, and so it’s fitting we begin the commemoration with the kind of local government meeting that soldiers and U.S. settlers would have loved. Through many years of support, the City of Lakewood has enormous respect for the early history of Washington Territory.”

The event will be held at the Pavilion at Fort Steilacoom Park, not at the fort itself. This location is a change from where our events usually take place. The Pavilion is the peach-colored building with the outdoor stage, near the barns. Parking is available behind the Pavilion, and the address is 9107 Angle Lane SW. But that street address can be confusing, depending on your mapping software; make sure your map directs you to the center of Fort Steilacoom Park, near the barns.

Come learn what’s happening in Lakewood and discover more about the rich history of our area!