Historic Hood River
Free Automobile Park
3-5-2015
Notes
The caption on the reverse says, “Oven beside driveway in Hood River free automobile park.” With the completion of the Columbia River Highway Hood River found itself in need of “auto parks” to service the new travelers. I’m not sure here this one was located, but I’ve seen records of the city auto park (now Tsuruta Park, 13th and State), the Antler Auto Park (now Zeman’s Music on West Cascade), as well as one on Country Club Road near Frankton.
Charlott
I know these were popular things of that era. I know that after the loop highway was put around Mt. Hood, there were some. One I know of was there at White River. I used to know the name of the people who had that, but having a "senior moment" here.
I know between here and Long Beach, California they had them, as my great-grandfather used to stop there when he drove from Hood River to Long Beach.
Okay auto guys, what is the vehicle shown.
Kenn
Great classic car, but appears a wheel alignment may be in order.
L.E.
A precursor to the pizza oven?
Looks like fairly young Cottonwood trees, so maybe in an area that had been cleared. Looks like the main road is up on the right?
Were these auto stops usually near creeks or a water source?
AAA was founded in 1902 as a motoring organization. In 1915 they introduced roadside assistance. It would be interesting to know who AAA members called in Hood River.
Longshot
Interesting the use of the word "oven" for what would now commonly be called a fireplace. Wonder if the meaning of the word has changed over time?
spinsur
I can’t help but wonder about the "Chinese ovens" that have been found along the old highway from the laborers used to build the road, and how those play into the auto parks. leftovers? and I would think near water, both for the occupants and the vehicle, since the drive was long and dusty, and the engines always needed water added. and likely that the Chinese would have placed their ovens near water, and wide spots for the night.
Kenn
Regarding the mention of "Chinese Ovens" in the area. Chinese do not normally use ovens, these are more probably from Greek and Italian road workers which were more common in this area.
I only know of two places in the gorge where there are stone oven remains, but on the Santiam Pass RR above Idanha and near Tunnel Creek there is one still standing in usable condition..
Steve r
Sometimes what’s unknown allows things to remain intact and untouched- … just saying …. 🙂
Twas great to hike with you today Kenn ! " Keep on Trucking ! "
judy
I agree, seems like a wheel alignment is in order!