Brown's Point Lighthouse Celebrates Tacoma's Maritime Heritage with Community Tours

Under the warm glow of the summer sun, the Brown's Point Lighthouse stands proudly at the eastern entrance of Commencement Bay, a testament to Tacoma's rich maritime history and community spirit. Established in 1887, this historic lighthouse began as a simple white lens lantern, guiding vessels safely into the bustling ports of Tacoma. By 1903, the structure evolved into a wood frame lighthouse accompanied by a keeper's cottage, reflecting the growing importance of maritime navigation in the area.

Today, the lighthouse is more than just a navigational aid; it is a cherished community landmark maintained by the Points Northeast Historical Society. Founded in 1986 by three passionate local women, the society has worked diligently to preserve the lighthouse and its surrounding buildings, ensuring their place on the National Historical Register. The site features two museums—the History Center and the Boathouse Museum—where visitors can explore maritime artifacts and delve into local history.

Every summer, from Memorial Day to Labor Day, the society opens the lighthouse to the public, offering guided tours led by enthusiastic volunteer docents. These tours provide a unique glimpse into the past, showcasing one of the few art deco lighthouses still standing and the fully preserved 1903 lighthouse cottage. The experience is further enriched by the opportunity to stay in the historic keeper's cottage, now available as a vacation rental through platforms like Airbnb and VRBO. Guests can enjoy a cozy retreat filled with period furnishings and a wealth of information about the lighthouse and its storied past.

As visitors wander through the lighthouse grounds, they are treated to captivating tales from the docents, including the story of the original lighthouse keeper, Oscar Brown, and his wife, Annie. Their arrival by boat, navigating the challenges of a time without roads or electricity, adds a personal touch to the lighthouse's history.

Brown's Point Lighthouse stands as a symbol of Tacoma's maritime heritage and the enduring spirit of its community, inviting all to explore its rich history and the stories that have shaped it over the years.