top of page

This Podcast Stinks: The Legend of the Tacoma Aroma

shea894

Have you ever caught a whiff of something so distinctive that it became part of a city's identity? That's exactly what happened with the infamous "Tacoma Aroma." In our latest episode of Rainy Day Rabbit Holes, hosts Shea and Jason dive nose-first into the pungent history of Tacoma, Washington, and its notorious odor.





"This Podcast Stinks: The Legend of the Tacoma Aroma" takes listeners on an olfactory journey through time, exploring how a city went from being the butt of smelly jokes to a vibrant urban center.


Here's a sneak peek of what you'll discover in this episode:


1. The industrial roots of the Tacoma Aroma, dating back to the late 1800s

2. How pulp mills, refineries, and even rendering plants contributed to the city's unique bouquet

3. The evolution of environmental regulations and their impact on Tacoma's air quality

4. The truth behind the rumor that Bruce Springsteen once fled the city due to its smell

5. How Tacoma's skyline, including the infamous Asarco smokestack, inspired Frank Herbert's landscapes in "Dune"

6. Tacoma's incredible transformation into a modern, thriving city


But the Tacoma Aroma wasn't just a source of embarrassment - it also inspired some creative expressions. Take, for instance, the catchy tune "The Aroma of Tacoma" by Jim Torrence and Don Lemon with "Diamond Jim" and the Jazzmasters. This musical ode to the city's infamous scent perfectly captures the humor and resilience of Tacoma's residents.




And while we're on the topic of quirky Pacific Northwest songs, don't miss "Godzilla Ate Tukwila" by Dave Phillips, another gem that showcases the region's unique character.





We encourage you to give these songs a listen and then tune in to our full episode for a deep dive into the aromatic history of Tacoma. You'll laugh, you'll learn, and you might even gain a new appreciation for the power of environmental regulation and urban renewal.


"This Podcast Stinks: The Legend of the Tacoma Aroma" is available now on all major podcast platforms. Don't miss this opportunity to explore one of the Pacific Northwest's most intriguing urban legends. Trust us, this is one rabbit hole you'll want to tumble down!


Or maybe it's something much more simple. What does Chris Staudinger from Pretty Gritty Tours say about the Tacoma Aroma? (go take a tour! www.prettygrittytours.com)





Remember to subscribe to Rainy Day Rabbit Holes for more fascinating stories from the Pacific Northwest and beyond. And don't worry - unlike the old Tacoma Aroma, our podcast is guaranteed not to offend your nostrils!

27 views0 comments

Comments


Support us

Looking for a way to support us and get access to exclusive content? Join our Patreon community today! By becoming a patron, you'll get access to episodes, behind-the-scenes content and much more. Your support helps us continue to create the content you love. Join now and become a part of our community!

bottom of page