When it comes to Oregon history, it doesn’t get much more significant than the Ermatinger House. In 1845, Francis Ermatinger built for himself a federal style residence in what is now downtown Oregon City. Ermatinger was a powerful and influential figure in early Oregon history, serving as a chief trader for the Hudson’s Bay Company, […]
WANTED: Site and Purpose for Oregon’s Oldest Log House
The Molalla Log House, possibly the state’s oldest structure, reveals secrets that may rewrite the first chapter of Oregon’s pioneer history. Researchers think Russians were first to build in Oregon. MOLALLA, OREGON – The historic Fox Granary in rural Clackamas County was no secret to local history buffs— the county declared the expertly crafted log […]
Historic Willamette Falls Locks Program This Wednesday in Oregon City
One of the oldest and most storied historic structures in Oregon is not a building! From 1873 until their closure in 2011, the Willamette Falls Locks made navigation on the Willamette River possible. Because the locks sit opposite to the old Blue Heron paper mill site now being redeveloped in Oregon City, we see the […]
Historic Menucha – From a Country Estate to a Treasure for Nonprofits
Wright Hall, the main lodge at Menucha Retreat and Conference Center in Corbett, began its life as the centerpiece of a country estate owned by former Oregon Governor Julius Meier. Built in 1926-27, the 6,000+ square foot home designed by architect Herman Brookman, was a comfortable retreat from Meier’s work managing Meier & Frank, the […]
Rebirth of Egyptian Theater—Many More to Come?
After three years of intense community advocacy, Coos Bay’s beloved Egyptian Theatre is shining bright once again. The downtown landmark was listed as one of Oregon’s Most Endan gered Places® in the spring of 2011 fol lowing its closure due to structural safety concerns. At the time of its listing as an Endangered Place, the theater […]
Seeking Information About Oregon’s African American Historic Places
The Oregon Black Pioneers, in partnership with the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO), has launched a new property survey project entitled Preserving Oregon’s African American Historic Places. The purpose of the project is to protect and preserve significant sites related to Oregon’s African history from the time period of 1844 to 1984. Who Are the […]
Hermiston Library Celebrates Centennial
May 16th marks the 100th birthday of the Hermiston Library, an event that will be celebrated with tours, cake, and entertainment by local high school bands. Hermiston was one of 31 communities across Oregon fortunate enough to boast a Carnegie Library, built with money donated by Scottish-American businessman and philanthropist Andrew Carnegie. A total of 1,689 […]