The visit to Tacoma was probably the first time Van had been ashore since San Francisco.  He most likely took part in the parade and then had a chance to take a look around the city.  

The postcard at right shows the City Hall at the north end of Tacoma.

Maybe not a Great Libery Risk

For one reason or another, the collection of cards between Tacoma and Ceylon was not there.  During the cruise the fleet Commanding Officer's were very careful with whom they allow ashore during port vists.  An early infraction of drunkeness or fighting could prevent a sailor from going ashore for a long time.  Another explaination was that Van just didn't get a chance to pick up some cards while ashore, or he mailed all the cards he did get.  In any case his album was bare until Ceylon.

At right, a Buddhist Priest from Ceylon.