Located in the shadow of Mount Rainier, South Hill was once a rural area known for timber and farming. From its beginnings as a Puyallup Tribe hunting ground to the post–World War II building boom, South Hill has undergone a striking transformation. Follow the trials of the pioneers who passed through on the Naches Trail and the settlers who grew hops for local brewers. Uncover the origins of Thun Field and its lesser-known predecessor, the S&S Airport. Relive the glory days of the Puyallup Raceways and celebrate the triumph of local Olympic gold medalist Megan Quann. Join author Carl Vest and the South Hill Historical Society as they explore the roots of South Hill.
Carl Vest, PhD, is the research director and co-founder of the South Hill Historical Society. He wrote a column on South Hill history for the Puyallup Herald for a decade. He previously served as president of the South Hill Community Council. A U.S. Air Force veteran, Carl went on to a career in scientific and technical research. From 1972 to 1992, Carl was a social and biological sciences consultant at Battelle Memorial Institute. Now retired, Carl and his wife, Lea, reside on South Hill.