Steilacoom is a waterfront town in Pierce County, Washington, on the shores of Puget Sound just south of Tacoma. It holds a distinctive place in the state's history: incorporated in 1854, it was the first town incorporated in Washington Territory and served as the county's first seat of government, and it claimed a string of territorial firsts that included the first jail, first sawmill, and first public library. When the railroad bypassed Steilacoom in 1873, its early prominence faded as Tacoma and Seattle grew, leaving behind a well-preserved collection of 19th-century homes and a quiet, walkable downtown. Today Steilacoom is known for its historic character and its location. The town faces Puget Sound, with beaches, waterfront parks, and a county ferry dock providing passenger access to Ketron and Anderson Islands. Its position just north of Joint Base Lewis-McChord makes it one of the closest waterfront communities to the installation, attracting military families who value a short commute and a peaceful setting. The compact downtown holds locally owned shops and eateries along streets lined with older homes, and the town's limited road access—there is no freeway exit into the center—keeps it feeling tucked away. For people considering a move, Steilacoom offers a small-town, coastal atmosphere within the South Sound region. Housing centers on single-family homes, many with historic character or water views, and the community's schools are part of a long-established district with a strong local reputation. It suits those who want a slower pace, a strong sense of history, and convenient access to JBLM and the Tacoma–Lakewood area.