Historic Hood River
By the Bridge of the Gods
9-13-2023
Notes
I’m sure the photographer was aiming to capture the large ship approaching the Bridge of the Gods in Cascade Locks, but I’m more interested in the unusual vehicle on the railroad tracks. It appears to have a Union Pacific shield on its side. By coincidence Arlen and the Class of 1959 will be visiting Hood River for their reunion today, so hopefully we’ll get an explanation.
I wonder if the photographer was here to capture the first ocean-going vessel to pass through the Bonneville Dam locks, which we previously saw in this image? Here’s a good article describing that event. Unfortunately the image isn’t clear enough to make a positive ID of the vessel.
Category: Cascade Locks
Tags: bridge, Bridge of the Gods, Cascade Locks, railroad, ship, Union Pacific
Tags: bridge, Bridge of the Gods, Cascade Locks, railroad, ship, Union Pacific
L. E.
My first thought was the photo was taken before the dam. But that probably is not accurate.
This site has a before and after of the bridge being raised.
https://historicbridges.org/bridges/browser/?bridgebrowser=oregon/bridgeofthegods/
Arthur Babitz
Yes LE, I think this is shortly after raising the bridge, though it’s hard to see enough detail on the pillars to be sure.
Gary Elkinton
This looks to be the ocean-going freighter SS Charles L. Wheeler Jr. which came up the Columbia River in July 1938. The Wasco County Pioneer Association has a photo [by Elite Studios] with this ship moored at The Dalles port.
Arlen L Sheldrake
an absolutely amazing picture and story…..absolutely amazed at how much I don’t know about our Gorge history.
My RR expert (not me) believes this might be a maintenance of way (MOW) piece of equipment. this photo is a GREAT capture.
MUCH appreciation for our reunion (HRHS 59) event at the Museum. VERY gracious hosts. special HRHS exhibit AND a very nice and informative visit with Arthur with a visit to his “cave”.