Hops are the leading agricultural product of the Puget sound region, and hop ranches are nearly all directly tributary to Tacoma. Puyallup valley, whose fame as a hop producing section has encircled the world, lies just east of the city, the line of the Northern Pacific passing directly through it. Upwards of three thousand acres are now in vine, which yielded twenty thousand bales in 1887, and twenty-five thousand in 1888, when an average of one thousand seven hundred pounds per acre of both old and young vines was secured. The superior quality of the cones, the freedom from pests and disease, the enormous yield and the rapid growth of young vines, combine to render this region foremost in the world in its adaptability to this special crop. Not only does the Puyallup valley produce hops, but other crops as well. Several thriving villages and numerous highly cultivated farms attest the prosperity of its people, as well as giving evidence of the valuable nature of the agricultural area immediately tributary to Tacoma. Puyallup hops are in demand in Japan, Europe and the eastern states of America, because of their superior quality and appearance. In the picking season the hop fields are the scene of great industry, and the numerous camps of pickers present a pleasing picture as the train passes up the valley. [Illustration: J. M. BUCKLEY. GEN’L. J. W. SPRAGUE. TACOMA’S BEAUTIFUL HOMES.] HISTORY OF TACOMA REAL ESTATE. A common expression of visitors is that “real estate is too high,” and many decline to invest in property for that reason, only to repent not many months later when values have advanced on all classes of property. Six years ago the same opinion was expressed, and the prediction was made that property values would take a tumble, and that the “boom” would collapse. Even in the “hard times” of 1884-5 these predictions were not realized. Values were fully sustained, and as soon as the nation began to recover from its financial depression, Tacoma real estate again started upward, and is still steadily advancing. The lot that was “too high” at $50 in 1883, and again declared “too high” at $200 in 1886, is now worth $500. The same opportunities exist to-day to buy lots at $50 and $100 that will in a few years be worth ten times their present value. Property in residence sections is a safe investment. The Sawyer addition lies near the center of the residence portion and contains one hundred and ninety lots, sixty-five of which are sold. Water is on the ground and street cars are within two blocks, while the Methodist university will be erected within one block. Oakland addition lies in the southwestern portion of the city overlooking the natural park, and is most desirable residence property. Traver’s addition is but one-half mile from the city limits, easy of access by good roads, and near the present terminus of the steam motor line. This is most desirable property, and is selling at $100 per lot on easy terms.