Historic Fort Steilacoom
Fort Steilacoom occupies an important position in the history of early America and the Pacific Northwest. The fort played a significant role in the settling of Washington Territory. Beginning with its construction in 1849 and ending with its closure in 1868, Fort Steilacoom served as beacon of American power and promise, promoting the migration of settlers to Washington.
Today, the Historic Fort Steilacoom Association seeks to interpret and preserve the fort’s remaining structures, reminding current and future generations of the fort’s contributions to the history of the United States.
News
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Military goods, old and new, are swapped, sold, and displayed!
On April 4th, Lt. Col. Casey’s home took on the appearance of a quartermaster’s warehouse with the wealth of vintage military gear and clothing on display or for sale. Several vendors arrived early in the morning to set-up their tables, each featuring a variety of goods ranging from antiques to reproduction items.
The periods represented varied from colonial period “kit”, through the 19th Century, and up to the 1991 Gulf War. The fort played host to numerous visitors and interested parties. All of our vendors wore period military attire including two highly-authentic Confederate impressions, a Vietnam infantry impression, and WWII and mid-19th Century army impressions. A special multi-period display was set-up in the lobby by the “Rogue Historians,” members of the fort’s Living History Detachment.
Sales were brisk in the morning, yet tapered out in the late afternoon. All of those who attended walked away with a great experience and fantastic conversation, not to mention great militaria to add to their collections! Visit Past Events for photos of this event. -
Fighting comes again to the Kent Valley, in miniature!
On April 19th, Lawrence Bateman hosted his fourth annual miniature skirmish game based on the Puget Sound Indian War of 1855-56.
A board member of FSHA and avid miniature war-gamer, Mr. Bateman helped guests recreate in miniature firefights that took place in the area involving units of the regular army and Washington Territorial Volunteers. This year’s scenario relived the day of Lt. William A. Slaughter’s demise on Dec. 4th, 1855, in area that is known today as the Kent Valley.
Special guests at the event included board members Bob Demorest and Tom Melberg and Mr. Johnny Joyce. Visit Past Events for photos of this event.
2009 Events
- May 8–10
Historic Fort Steilacoom 160th Anniversary Celebration
- Opening ceremonies with state, city, and US Army dignitaries; Army marching band & bagpipers; school visits and activities; Reenactor equipment swap meet. Historic Fort Steilacoom Association will provide docents to conduct tours of the fort buildings & period camps. More…
- May 16
Armed Forces Day — HFSA to demonstrate at Fort Lewis
- July 4
Parades in the Towns of Steilacoom & Dupont
- August 16
Founder’s Day Pic-Nic