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Tacoma, Washington: Please Stand for our National Anthem

A plaque marks the spot where, on Oct. 18, 1893, Gen. Rossell O'Brien began the custom of standing for the Star Spangled Banner.

Address:
754 Broadway, Tacoma, WA
Directions:
The plaque is bolted to a wall on the west side of Broadway, about a hundred yards north of S. 9th St. It's just to the left of a doorway that's just to the left of a vintage toy shop.
Admission:
Free
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In Honor of Rossell G. O'Brien...

Please Stand For Our National Anthem

A plaque commemorates Rossel G. O'Brien, who originated the custom of standing for the Star Spangled Banner in 1893.

[Edward E, 06/04/2012]

Rossel was the mayor of Tacoma at the time, so his opinion carried some weight. Not only did he stand, he proposed that everyone else should stand, too. His Civil War veteran buddies quickly adopted the practice, and soon it became a national custom.


Nearby Offbeat Places

Tacoma's Unwelcome Goddess of CommerceTacoma's Unwelcome Goddess of Commerce, Tacoma, WA - < 1 mi.
World Globe 9/11 MemorialWorld Globe 9/11 Memorial, Tacoma, WA - < 1 mi.
20-Foot-Tall Welcome Giantess20-Foot-Tall Welcome Giantess, Tacoma, WA - < 1 mi.
In the region:
Equality - Prosperity vs. Wretchedness, Seattle, WA - 24 mi.

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