Once known as Puyallup Hill, Midland in Washington State holds more than meets the eye. This census-designated place has a story woven from pioneer grit railroads and community spirit. We are standing at the heart of what was once the Southeast Tacoma Plat.
Midland’s early days trace back to 1855. Ezra Meeker and his brother Oliver claimed land here. Their father Jacob Meeker encouraged them to move from McNeil Island. These claims were forests between Nisqually Plain and the Puyallup River. Imagine dense woods so thick stars couldn’t penetrate.
The brothers’ claims became the Southeast Tacoma Plat in 1888. Joesephus S. Howell and Dr Charles H Spinning developed it into lots and streets. The Southeast Tacoma Mutual Water Company got its name from this plat.
Railroads played a vital role in Midland’s development. In 1889 three railroads secured rights of way. They included the Tacoma Puyallup Railway Tacoma Eastern Railroad and Portland Puget Sound Railroad. Randolph Foster Radebaugh established the Tacoma Puyallup Railway. This streetcar line extended into Midland towards Puyallup. Locals called it the Puyallup Hill Line or the Grapevine Line.
The Tacoma Eastern Railroad served the Hart brothers’ sawmill. It eventually stretched into Midland’s forests. The Portland and Puget Sound Railroad a disguised Union Pacific line never materialized. Financial difficulties halted its progress.
“Midland” appeared on the Midland Townsite Plat of 1890. The Olympic Land Company created the plat. It lay near the center of the streetcar line.
There has been much debate about the origin of the name of Midland. Some say it came from being the midpoint of the Old Trolley Line. The actual midpoint centers near 97th Street E and Portland Avenue. In 1900 the community was centered on the corner of Achilles and Van Buren today 104th Street E and Portland Ave E.
Today the community centers closer to 99th St E and Portland Ave. Midland’s story is one of transformation. From dense forests to railway hub to a thriving community.
As you explore Midland remember its past. Imagine the pioneers the trains and the spirit that shaped this place. Midland continues to evolve. It preserves its history while embracing the future.