Tacoma’s North Slope Historic District is a trapezoidal-shaped district bounded by North I Street to the north, Division Avenue to the east, and N Steele Street to the west. North Grant Avenue caps off the south end of the district. The North Slope has 1,285 resources and is one of the state’s largest historic districts.

The District was settled primarily as a residential neighborhood and contains a wide variety of architectural styles including Stick Style, Queen Anne, Craftsman, American Foursquare,Tudor Revival, and Mission Revival. Within it you will find many churches, apartments, and a few business areas.

There were three building booms within the district: 1888 to 1893, 1902 to 1915, and 1919 to 1929. Nearly 80 percent of the homes were built prior to 1930. The neighborhood developed over time and it is common to find structures built structures built 20, 30 or even 50 years later.

Tacoma’s North Slope Historic District is a cohesive neighborhood that represents the social and economic history of Tacoma. The district represents a cross culture of individuals – both famous and ordinary – whose skills and talents played a role in the development and growth of the city. The early residents included professionals, trades people, business proprietors, railroad employees, and celebrities – all living in a close-knit neighborhood.

The district embodies the distinctive characteristics of residential development in Tacoma. Many of these dwellings represent the work of master craftsmen and architects. The period of significance for the district runs from 1881 to 1955. In 1955, the City of Tacoma changed zoning laws that allowed some of the neighborhood’s older homes to be demolished and replaced by apartment buildings.

Residents of the North Slope Historic District are united by more than their affinity for old homes. The district’s board is made up of residents who are dedicated to the betterment of our neighborhood. Board members discuss and take action on issues pertaining to safety, zoning, historic preservation and more. Each year the board plans a variety of educational and social activities for residents.

– The North Slope Historic District, Inc.