The indigenous name for Mount Rainier is Tahoma.
This majestic stratovolcano, a prominent feature of the Pacific Northwest landscape, holds deep cultural significance for the Indigenous peoples of the region.
The Indigenous Name: Tahoma
For centuries, various Northwest Native American tribes referred to the mountain by names that often translated to "the great mountain," "mother of waters," or similar respectful terms. The most widely recognized indigenous name is Tahoma, sometimes spelled "Tacoma." This name was used by several groups, including the Puyallup and Nisqually, reflecting the mountain's towering presence and its role as a source of rivers and life.
The European Naming: Mount Rainier
The mountain received its current name, Mount Rainier, from Captain George Vancouver. In 1792, Vancouver, a British naval officer and explorer, sighted the peak and named it in honor of his friend, Rear Admiral Peter Rainier, R.N.
The table below summarizes the dual naming history of the mountain:
| Name | Origin/Namer | Significance/Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Tahoma | Northwest Native Americans | Indigenous name, often meaning "great mountain" or related to snow/water. |
| Mount Rainier | Captain George Vancouver | Named in 1792 after Rear Admiral Peter Rainier, R.N. |
Understanding both names provides a richer appreciation for the mountain's long history, from its ancient indigenous roots to its more recent colonial naming. Today, while officially known as Mount Rainier, the name Tahoma continues to resonate as a testament to the original inhabitants and their enduring connection to the land.
To learn more about the historical context of Mount Rainier and its naming, you can visit the USGS Cascade Volcano Observatory.
