Clinton P. Ferry
Clinton Peyre Ferry (during his lifetime usually referred to as Colonel Clinton Peyre Ferry; May 24, 1836 – 1909) was a founder and pioneer of Tacoma, Washington, and a successful businessman and art connoisseur. He was also known as the Duke of Tacoma.
Clinton Peyre Ferry | |
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| Born | May 24, 1836 Fort Wayne, Indiana, US |
| Died | 1909 San Diego, California, US |
| Burial place | Tacoma Cemetery, Tacoma, Washington |
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| Years active | 1873–1909 |
| Known for | One of the founders of Tacoma; founded the Ferry Museum and collected a vast array of its showpieces |
| Political party | Republican |
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| Children | 2 |
| Relatives | Elisha P. Ferry (uncle) |
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Ferry left his home in Indiana at the age of twenty-two to travel the U.S. in search of a place, that would grow into a city of note. He settled in Portland, Oregon for about seventeen years, was its treasurer for four years, and later worked in investments and as a general agent in a number of companies.
Ferry arrived in the Tacoma area in 1873, and is credited for giving the city its name. He improved the city's infrastructure by investing in real estate, creating parks, and working on the city's layout. He increased the city's national importance by making it the western terminus of the Northern Pacific Railroad. Later, due to the failing economy and the ensuing panic, the railroad closed. Ferry tried to keep his business going, but later gave up and left the city, coming back in 1893.
Ferry travelled extensively around Europe, collecting a vast array of art. On his return to Tacoma, Ferry donated his collection to the city, and later the first city museum was established under the name of the Ferry Museum. The museum gave people opportunities to learn art, history, and culture, and develop their artistic skills.