Tacoma Telephone Pioneer Museum Tacoma, WA

Out of all the museums in the area, one stands out as a true “hidden gem.” The Tacoma Telephone Pioneer Museum, despite being smaller and less well-known than its counterparts, provides a fascinating glimpse into the region’s history and is well worth a visit. The museum is only open for a few hours every Thursday morning, but visitors can expect to be greeted by enthusiastic docents who are eager to share their knowledge about the evolution of communication technologies.

Situated on the first floor of the downtown AT&T Building at the intersection of 9th and Fawcett, the Tacoma Telephone Pioneer Museum is staffed entirely by retired telephone company employees, including operators, switchboard workers, and account managers. From the earliest models of telephones to modern-day devices, the volunteers showcase the various designs and processes involved in making phone calls. Visitors can see the equipment used in hand-cranked calls, party lines, operator-assisted calls, switchboards, and wall-mounted cords. The museum is funded entirely by donations and is a testament to the dedication of its volunteers.

To experience the Tacoma Telephone Pioneer Museum’s unique offerings, visitors should be prepared to adjust their schedules accordingly since it is only open from 8:00 a.m. to noon on Thursdays.