Tahoma Glacier

Mt. Tahoma and the Tahoma Glacier

          Mt. Rainier is now Mount Tahoma.  But, 100 years ago, Mt. Rainier had a glacier on its western slope : the Tahoma Glacier.  In addition, there was another close by glacier called the North Tahoma Glacier.   These two are just a couple of a dozen or more glaciers that descend from the summit at 14,300' elevation.   The ancient volcano slumbers quietly as skiers, hikers, and climbers traverse the lower slopes.   Its gradually sloping shoulders afford easy access to the peaks that form the crest of the mountain.  At this height, snow and ice linger throughout the year.  Warm summers give hikers exquisite views in all directions.
          Tahoma Creek crashes down a narrow valley below the glaciers.  It is crossed by a magnificent suspension bridge(foot traffic only).  (see Wikimedia).
        The history of the above image
        The photo above was captured by the  company of Curtis & Miller, photographers.  It was on the face of a postcard mailed from Tacoma, Washington-Camp(fort) Lewis on Sept. 17, 1917! or almost 100 years ago.  Destination: Martinez, California.  A great family heirloom treasure.  No zip codes in 1917.   Postage; $0.01.   see stamp image for one cent stamp-Geo. Washington image w/ green background.
       The author(s) were two California servicemen who had been sent to Camp Lewis for basic training as WW I raged in France and other countries of Western Europe.  The US Army was preparing to send a division to help the beleaguered Allies who were struggling to contain the Kaiser's armies.   The authors complained about all the marching and drilling they had to do everyday.   Nothing has changed much except phones and TV.
      Note the caption in the upper left corner: The Switzerland of America.  Ahhh, boosterism.