Historic Hood River
July 4, 1912
7-4-2016
Notes
It looks like time for another July 4th hose fight. This is the intersection of State Street and Second. Deitz Photo Studio stands where we now see Overlook Memorial Park. Just to the east, where the Big Horse Brewpub now stands, the sign seems to say “Signs.” Perhaps a sign painter?
It’s a shame we don’t have a better view of the competition, but you can see a bit of hose in the lower left corner. It’s certainly gotten the attention of the crowd.
Norma
I thought the brewpub was Horsefeathers. Used to be Meyer’s Cleaners in my day.
Kenn
Great picture, wonder when the steps were first put in. They are useful not only for getting around but for recreation and views. Years ago I took the Amtrak Pioneer train to Hood River just to explore and experience the steps. (not only a train freak, I mean fan, but a stairs fan also)
Arthur
My best guess is the stairs were built when the pipeline was installed from the reservoir at what is now Wilson Park to the Union Building and beyond. It runs right next to the stairs. This was roughly 1903. You can still see a piece of this pipe sticking out of the hillside next to the steel portion of stairs at Sherman Street. We have other pictures of wood stairs up at Hazel Street from this same era (1912). The concrete stairs replaced the wood stairs in the 1940s.
I’m not sure, but I think the brewery is called "Big Horse" and the restaurant "Horsefeathers." Both names appear on the building. Not sure what the proper name is.
Judy
I think the "brewery" is downstairs & the restaurant (Horsefeathers) is above.
Either way, those steps are good cardio.💙
Judy
At one time they even tried making noodles, etc. downstairs. As I recall they were for mostly the Portland market.
Arlen Sheldrake
ah the stairs….recreation? I considered them cruel punishment….getting in shape for football and running the stairs….
Buzz
Ah yes, running the stairs with football gear on in late August when it was 100 degrees in the shade and there wasn’t any.
nels
My late neighbor walked from the Heights and down the stairs to work in the cannery packing house and then back home after work Then took care of invalid mother and handicapped husband, grew a garden, and cooked the best beans and cornbread on earth. RIP Hazel DeHart.