Chamber updates Historic Walking Tour Map

The Port Orchard Chamber of Commerce’s Tourism Committee finished revisions to the new Historic Walking Tour Map last week and is currently distributing the maps throughout Port Orchard hoping to ratchet up the interest of those visiting historic downtown.

According to Melode Sapp, executive director of the Port Orchard Chamber of Commerce, the maps will be available beginning this week.

“We’ll put them primarily at the chamber and then scatter the downtown area,” Sapp said. “We’ll also put some at the visitor’s center on Sedgwick to try and attract people off the highway.”

Sapp said she believes the map encourages older residents, building and business owners to share their stories for the record.

“I feel confident that this map and the information will need to be revised at some point, but we worked so hard on it and I think it’s as accurate as possible at this point,” Sapp said. “I’m hoping it will bring some fresh historical information to light.”

According to Sapp, the new map features some definite improvements over the map commissioned several years ago.

“It has a little more detailed information about the older buildings and businesses of Port Orchard,” Sapp said. “The pictures are excellent.

“I think we’ve all traveled to other towns and if we can pick up a bit of history, it’s fascinating,” Sapp said. “When people realize their historical value, they’re more forgiving if the buildings need a coat of paint. Understanding the history of a town creates a different feel. That’s valuable.”

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