I don’t really believe in reincarnation. But if I did, I know who I was in a former life: Allen C. Mason. Back in the day (we’re talking the 1880s), Mason was Tacoma’s most vociferous promoter, spending upwards of $5,000 per month on a national ad campaign touting a list of 120 positive attributes in what he called “Tacoma’s Star of Destiny.” Included on the list: “No Tornados Nor Hurricanes,” and “Less Average Rainfall Than Chicago.” Mason will soon get his due. According to the News Tribune, “a full corner of North 26th Street in the Proctor business district will get transformed into Mason Plaza, including Mason’s statue and six Wilkeson sandstone columns that originally held up the portico to Mason’s 1892 North End mansion.” You’ll also get to read 120 of Tacoma’s high points in a special bronze plaque. For a sneak preview of the new plaza, click here. Now, where did I put my stovepipe hat and walking stick?

-Dale

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