Fircrest, WA
County: Pierce
History
Fircrest is a city located in Pierce County, Washington. The area now known as Fircrest was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Puyallup and Nisqually peoples.
The first European settlers arrived in the late 19th century, attracted by the area's fertile soil and abundant timber. In 1888, William Rust Jr. purchased the land that would become Fircrest and established a farm known as "Woodlea." The area continued to be primarily agricultural until the early 20th century.
In 1925, a real estate development firm called the City of Fircrest Corporation was formed, led by E.G. Ames. They purchased 455 acres of land from Rust and began developing the area into a residential community. The company's goal was to create a modern planned suburb with affordable homes and recreational areas.
The city's name, Fircrest, was chosen to reflect the abundance of fir trees in the area, as well as the beautiful views of the surrounding Puget Sound and Mount Rainier. The community quickly grew as people were drawn to its picturesque setting and the promise of a better quality of life.
Fircrest was officially incorporated as a city on September 19, 1925. It became the first planned community in Washington State and one of the first in the United States. The first planned communities in Fircrest featured homes with modern amenities, including electricity, indoor plumbing, and paved streets.
Over the years, Fircrest has continued to develop and expand. In the 1950s and 1960s, additional areas were annexed to the city. Today, Fircrest is a thriving suburban community with a population of over 6,400 residents.
Fircrest is known for its strong sense of community and active neighborhood involvement. The city is home to several parks, including community centers, sports fields, and playgrounds, providing ample recreational opportunities for residents. The Fircrest Golf Club, established in 1924, is also a popular attraction in the area.
In summary, Fircrest has a rich history that dates back to the late 19th century. From its beginnings as an agricultural area to becoming a thriving planned community, Fircrest has grown into a beautiful suburb with a strong sense of community and a desirable place to call home in Washington State.
Attractions
Chambers Bay
This public golf course offers panoramic views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains, along with challenging fairways and greens.
Frontline Food Truck Park
Located on Mildred Street, this food truck park offers a variety of cuisine options, live music, and a family-friendly atmosphere.
Titlow Park
This waterfront park features a sandy beach, walking trails, picnic areas, and stunning views of the Tacoma Narrows Bridge.
Paradise Bowl
This family-owned bowling alley offers a retro vibe, arcade games, and a snack bar for a fun night out with friends or family.
Fircrest Golf Club
This private golf club features an 18-hole course, driving range, and a clubhouse with dining and event facilities.
Sunset Park
This neighborhood park has a playground, walking trails, and picnic areas, perfect for a leisurely day outdoors.
Pioneer Park
Located nearby in Steilacoom, this historic park features a rose garden, walking trails, and an old-fashioned bandstand.
Fort Steilacoom Park
Just a short drive away, this large park offers soccer and baseball fields, walking trails, a playground, and a historical museum.
Cheney Stadium
Home to the Tacoma Rainiers, the Triple-A affiliate of the Seattle Mariners, this baseball stadium provides an opportunity to catch a professional baseball game.
Point Defiance Park
Located in neighboring Tacoma, this expansive park features a zoo, rose garden, pagoda, hiking trails, and stunning waterfront views.
Climate
Fircrest, Washington experiences a marine west coast climate, which is characterized by mild, wet winters and cool, dry summers. The city is located in Pierce County and has proximity to the Puget Sound.
Winters in Fircrest are relatively mild with average temperatures ranging from the mid-30s to low 50s Fahrenheit (1-11 degrees Celsius). Rainfall is frequent during this season, with January being the wettest month. Snowfall is relatively rare but can occur occasionally.
Summers in Fircrest are generally comfortable and cool, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to low 70s Fahrenheit (17-23 degrees Celsius). While rainfall decreases during the summer months, it is still possible to experience occasional showers. The region enjoys long daylight hours during this season.
Overall, Fircrest experiences a moderate climate, with a significant amount of precipitation throughout the year. The city's proximity to the Puget Sound and Cascade Mountains can influence local weather patterns, resulting in localized variations in temperature and precipitation.
Neighborhoods
Fircrest is a small city located in Pierce County, Washington. While it is a relatively small town, it does have a few distinct neighborhoods that offer diverse living environments. Here are some of the neighborhoods you can find in Fircrest:
Fircrest Golf Club Community
This neighborhood centers around the Fircrest Golf Club, which is a prominent recreational attraction in the city. The area is characterized by beautiful tree-lined streets, well-manicured lawns, and a sense of community pride. Many homes in this neighborhood offer stunning golf course views.
Gravelly Lake
Situated near Gravelly Lake, this neighborhood features beautiful waterfront properties. Gravelly Lake is a popular spot for recreational activities, including boating, fishing, and picnicking. Living in this area provides residents with scenic views and easy access to outdoor activities.
Regents Boulevard
Regents Boulevard is a residential area that offers a mix of housing options, including single-family homes and townhouses. This neighborhood is conveniently situated near the commercial district of Fircrest, providing easy access to shops, restaurants, and services.
Cobblestone
Cobblestone is a neighborhood that features charming, cottage-style homes. Known for its picturesque streets, well-maintained gardens, and friendly atmosphere, this area is popular among families and individuals looking for a cozy and safe community.
Woodside
Woodside is a peaceful neighborhood with predominantly single-family homes. The area is known for its quiet streets, mature trees, and an overall suburban feel. It provides residents with a tranquil living environment while still being within close proximity to essential amenities.
Each of these neighborhoods has its own unique characteristics and appeal, offering residents a range of options when choosing to live in Fircrest, WA. Whether it's waterfront living, golf course views, or a sense of community, Fircrest has something to offer for everyone.