Oakland/Madrona

In the 1880s Oakland Addition residential subdivision was platted to accommodate the growing number of workers needed in the industrial valley that is now known as "Nalley Valley." Lumber yards and mills were a short walk east, down a low grade from the new community. The McGoldrick sawmill, which bordered the west-end of the Oakland Addition, was in full operation, logging the timber in the Oakland area during the 1880s and into the new century. Wood product manufacturing continued in the early 1900s with businesses making caskets, window sashes and frames, doors, cabinets and wooden matches. Oakland Elementary School was built in 1912 to accommodate the growing population, and by 1920 Pacific Match Company had replaced Todd Lumber Yard
	on the corner of Union Avenue and Center Street. During the 20s, 30s, 40s and 50s, Pacific Match Company was a major employer of Oakland residents. Retail shops started to sprout at the trolley stop at South Wright and Adams Streets and along Center Street for the growing residential neighborhood. Tacoma Water built a shop and warehouse building at South 35th & Union Avenue in 1939 and later in 1953, the Public Utilities Administration headquarters for Tacoma Public Utilities was built across the street.
During the early 40s, Most single-family housing was complete, the trolley line was discontinued and Center Street became the major arterial for motorized busses and cars. Center Street was now the east-west connection to downtown Tacoma for the sprawling communities of Fircrest and University Place. Nalley's Foods moved to their present location and the phrase "Nalley's Valley" was born.
Although the sawmills and lumberyards have long since disappeared, remnants of the wood products era remain. Doors are still manufactured in Nalley Valley and many similar businesses remain within the district. The Oakland/Madrona district is a hub for the home-improvement business, attracting many large retailers while retaining long-time, large and small paint, cabinet and carpet stores.
	The Oakland/Madrona Business District Association is working with the City of Tacoma Neighborhood Business District Revitalization Program to recruit and retain business vitality by implementing street scapes, public art and assistance for small business. The association also teams with the Oakland/Madrona Neighborhood Group to restore community spirit. Through the hard work and efforts of many dedicated people throughout the community, the district is starting to grow once again, with renewed vitality, spirit and enthusiasm.
Information furnished by the Oakland/Madrona Business District Association. (253) 678-0682, 2421 South Union Avenue Suite l-1, Box 183 Tacoma, Washington 98405. For membership information, contact Ron Michael, OMBDA President at 253-627-5277