If you live or work in Tacoma, you have probably been to or walked across Wright Park. This iconic city park was once thought of as an “unwieldy piece of nature” and posed a challenge to landscape designers. Now it is hard to imagine the area between Division and Yakima avenues without this haven that offers a respite from the busy traffic and concrete sidewalks to all who walk by. The development of this park shaped the city in many ways, and historian Melissa McGinnis will join us to teach us how this "unwieldy piece of nature" was transformed into an oasis of natural yet artfully planned beauty in the heart of Tacoma. 

Melissa McGinnis studied history at the University of West Florida. She was fortunate to have a career working in a variety of national, state and city historic sites ranging from the Castillo de San Marcos in Florida to Alabama's Fort Morgan to Maryland's first capital, St. Mary's City. Her final stop was as the historian for Metro Parks Tacoma where she had the honor and pleasure of researching and writing about the fascinating history of Tacoma's parks. 

Please note: If tickets are sold out on eventbrite, just email info@tacomatreefoundation.org to let us know you’d like to sign up. We welcome everyone!