Old Town Tacoma: Premiere Northwest Neighborhood Located at the base of 30th Street and surrounded by beautiful Commencement Bay is the iconic Tacoma neighborhood of Old Town. Originally settled by Job Carr in 1865, Old Town is home to the first structures ever built in Tacoma. It's this unique blend of history and natural beauty that gives Old Town its special charm. Today, this waterfront community blends historical charm with contemporary conveniences such as: restaurants, shops, and beautiful Old Town Park. History Old Town is literally the birthplace of Tacoma. In 1865, pioneer and Civil War veteran, Job Carr settled in Tacoma, hoping to capitalize on the expansion of the Northern Pacific Railroad. Ultimately, the railroad would decide to relocate just outside the reaches of Old Town, however the arrival of the railroad triggered an economic boom, forcing Old Town and the neighboring community of "New Tacoma" to merge together. This "combined" Tacoma was incorporated as a city in 1884. As Tacoma grew, many Slavic and Northern Europeans came to settle in the area Carr had popularized, effectively turning Old Town into a functioning fishing village. This rich maritime history is still evident with the recreation of Old Town's public dock, Slovenian Hall, The Old Town Music Society and The Northern Fish Company, a waterfront full service seafood establishment. Job Carr's original cabin would go on to become the first Post Office in Tacoma, and Carr would be named its Postmaster. Carr's early commitment to Old Town is memorized at the Job Carr Cabin Museum located at Old Town Park. The museum is open year round and guided tours are available by appointment. This priceless look back into the history of Tacoma is a valuable community resource and truly a historical landmark. Today Old Town is now home to many local shops, restaurants, and businesses. Old Town is also well known for its summer time happenings like: The Old Town Rhythm amp; Blues Festival. In addition to summer time festivals, the Old Town Park is roughly 2 acres of pristinely kept: picnic areas, a playground, and a half basketball court. The park is surrounded by local businesses, coffee shops, and legal offices. In addition, two large gathering places: Slovenian Hall and The Old Town Music Society offer year round event hall rentals, making Old Town an ideal venue for a large gathering or event. The Spar Located on the corner of McCarver and 30th Street is Tacoma's oldest watering hole, named appropriately, The Spar. While rich in local history (this location used to be a street poker destination at the turn of the century-according to their website) The Spar has managed to stay up with the times through a spacious café renovation a few years back and the expansion of breakfast/coffee service attached to the tavern. The Spar serves up Northwest favorites like Chicken and Joe's while also offering more contemporary options like the Mediterranean Plate. In addition to its food and drink offerings, The Spar hosts two live music shows on Saturday and Sunday nights Old Town Real Estate With a mix of turn-of-the century Victorian style homes and contemporary Craftsman construction, Old Town offers buyers: larger homes, classic floor plans, and fantastic views of Commencement Bay. In addition, the classic charm of this unique neighborhood is evident in the cobblestone streets and tree-lined sidewalks that adorn this beautiful community. Many Old Town homes feature older construction (as the name implies), however many of these classic homes have been updated with modern amenities throughout the years. Homes in Old Town are some of the most valuable and sought-after pieces of real estate in the Northwest Old Town is also home to the world-renowned Annie Wright School and neighboring Tacoma Lawn Tennis Club. View Old Town Real Estate here
