Historic Hood River
Timberline Uncluttered
2-4-2025
Notes
Timberline Lodge has been well cared for in recent years, but this Sawyers real photo postcard from the 1930s shows it without the visual clutter we see today. Between the cars and the crowds its hard to appreciate the architectural statement of the building and the craftsmanship that went into its construction.
L. E.
That is a beautiful view of beautiful construction.
Arlen L sheldrake
also hard to imagine that it was close to demolition in the 1950s
Trudy Tallman
I’m looking for an old photo from the HR News. There was a musical show called the HR Follies, in I’m guessing the 1940s or 1950s. Photo is of the cast on the Auditorium stage. No relation to the Lions clubs’ shows. I’ve seen this photo in the past, hoping you can help me find it now. Thanks!
Thorn
Here’s a KATU article from Timberline’s 80th anniversary, including the full transcript of FDR’s dedication speech on September 28, 1937.
https://katu.com/news/local/photos-80-years-ago-fdr-dedicated-the-timberline-lodge
I’m going to guess this is late summer, prior to FDR’s visit. The windows are open, probably for airflow during construction versus hot weather. But also, the chimney on the right is very clean, but in the photo linked below, during FDR’s arrival, you can see the chimney much more blackened from soot.
https://www.timberlinelodge.com/images/1_col/HISTORY_1C_DEDICATION-3241-1663111094.jpg
Cecelia Goodnight
Many know that Timberline was a project of FDR’s New Deal that provided jobs during the Depression through the WPA and CCC. Many artists and craftspeople were employed to finish the interior. That tradition is still being carried on by two weaving guilds in the gorge. They have just finished the first delivery of upholstery fabric that will be used to recover cushions on furniture in the lounges. Another 20 yards of wool is about to go on a loom at the studio in Odell that has been set aside for this project.
Thorn
My comment today is still waiting moderation. Is it because I included some links?
Arthur Babitz
Thorn, not sure why your great comment got sent to moderation. It’s pretty random. Anyone whose comment gets stopped, do what Thorn did and send another one with less content so I know you’re comment is waiting. I don’t check the queue often because it is usually empty!