Nancy Covert knows Steilacoom, Lakewood and the surrounding area. The journalist lived in Steilacoom for 20 years before moving to Lakewood. According to Covert, "Lake City and Tillicum began as two communities separated by American Lake. Although they later joined with other surrounding neighborhoods to become part of the city of Lakewood, American Lake remains the treasured focal point of the region." The largest of 12 lakes in the Lakes District, American Lake was once envisioned by Tacoma developers as an ideal resort location. But their grandiose dreams came to a crashing halt with the Panic of 1893. Covert has added another book focusing on the area, American Lake Vignettes, exploring the little-known history of American Lake, weaving together stories from lifelong residents. Join Covert for a vivid look back at life on American Lake at the Steilacoom Historical Museum.

AUTHOR NANCY COVERT, 7 p.m., Steilacoom Historical Museum, 1801 Rainier St, Steilacoom, free admission, 253.584.4133