FORMA

Oly-to-our-bones, FORMA Construction is thrilled to be a part of this important chapter in local maritime history

Built in the early 1900s, the historic, 50-foot tugboat Parthia was a common sight on Olympia’s working waterfront for nearly four decades before becoming a regular race-winning participant in the annual Olympia Harbor Days festivals, and ultimately sinking at moorage in Hood Canal in 2017. Salvaged by the South Sound Maritime Heritage Association (SSMHA) with the goal of restoring the tug and showcasing her on Olympia’s waterfront as a maritime icon and educational exhibit, the 118-year-old Parthia is now one step closer to her new permanent home adjacent to the Olympia Farmers Market. (and FORMA’s office).

We recently joined project partners from SSMHA, the Port of Olympia, Thomas Architecture Studios, and interested community members to kick off construction of the new exhibit, which will feature a concrete foundation and future protective canopy with signage and solar lighting; landscaping and seating for visitors; as well as plans for an informational maritime walkway connecting Parthia to Olympia’s other historic tugboat, Sand Man, still afloat at Percival Landing.

Construction of the exhibit and placement of the tug boat is scheduled for this spring, so stay tuned for updates and enjoy this link for a lot more detail on this local maritime legend.