Pierce County

Pierce County is an administrative division in the state of Washington, stretching from the shores of Puget Sound to the slopes of Mount Rainier. The area includes forested zones, waterways and several cities, among them the port city of Tacoma.

The administrative division was founded in December 1852 and named after Franklin Pierce, who shortly became President of the United States. Settlement by immigrants grew in the following decades, as timber industry and port activity developed.

The Museum of Glass in Tacoma displays glasswork and hosts workshops where artists shape pieces in front of visitors. This living connection between craft tradition and modern creation reflects how the region values hands-on skill and material transformation.

Distances between locations are large, so a vehicle is needed to explore different areas. Mountain zones require extra preparation and weather-appropriate clothing, especially during cooler months.

The summit of Mount Rainier remains covered in glaciers year-round, draped across its volcanic cone. Though the mountain appears calm, researchers continue to monitor seismic activity in the region.

Location: Washington

Inception: December 22, 1852

Capital city: Tacoma

Shares border with: King County, Yakima County, Lewis County, Thurston County, Mason County, Kitsap County, Kittitas County

Website: https://piercecountywa.gov

GPS coordinates: 47.05000,-122.11000

Latest update: December 4, 2025 23:41