Historic Hood River
Centennial
Notes
Yesterday marked the centennial of the dedication of the Columbia River Highway, and I was invited to participate in the re-dedication ceremony. I was having far too much fun to do a serious job photographing the event, so you get this mediocre photo and a bunch of words. I’ve put out a request for some more professional photos, so you may see some more in coming days.
We assembled with a fleet of 25 pre-1916 cars at Troutdale early yesterday morning. I was assigned to a beautiful 1913 Overland, one of only 10 remaining. From there we drove the highway to Crown Point, where the Royal Rosarians with Queen Kahedja Burley presented the flag (see photo), followed by an artillery salute. We then drove down to Multnomah Falls for speeches by Sam Hill (or at least a good facsimile), Governor Roberts, Governor Kulongoski, and several others.
Governor Kulongoski suggested we set the goal of completing the last five miles of the reconnected state highway trail by 2022, the 100th anniversary of the highways’ completion to the Dalles. That seems like a fine goal. See you in the Dalles in 2022.
Norma
I was waiting to find out the location of Monday’s photo.
L.E.
Glad you had an enjoyable day!
Exciting about the pre-1916 cars. I wonder if today’s cars will still be running 113 years later. Or if anyone will care to keep them running.
Not to rain on anyone’s parade, but my grandparents had a farm on the hill in the background and my husband’s grandparents had a farm on an island down below. None of them spoke kindly about this building. What you grow up hearing can affect your "viewpoint".
L.E.
So was I Norma, but I didn’t want to rain any harder on Arthur’s parade.
Kenn
In the photo Kevin Price is speaking, he was recently promoted from head of state parks in the gorge to parks head in Salem. I congratulate him on the promotion but will miss him at the Rooster Rock park office.
I enjoy the old cars, nice to see something still moving that is older than me. They have been restored to full power and appearance (wish I could say the same about myself).
Buzz
L.E., would your grandparents be referring to what my dad called the "million dollar s–t house. He thought the old highway was great, but many who grew up during the depression weren’t big on what they considered government boondoggle frills.
Arthur
I should have pointed out that even in the short trip (1/2 hour each way) we had at least 3 flat tires and 1 breakdown in our fleet of 25. I think this is typical of the performance of the cars of the era.
arlen sheldrake
great celebration!!!! yes, I also grew up hearing that we would be stopping at the "million dollar toilet" on the way to/from Portland. glad it is appreciated by the current and future generations.
Charlott
In our day it took so long to go from Hod River to Portland, you most certainly needed the potty stop.
Kenn
Decades ago I would stop at Vista House with groups of boy scouts and suggest they go to the basement rest room.even if not necessary, i wanted them to see the beautiful marble.
Kenn
Built on solid rock, i can only guess where the sewage ended up in the early days.
Arthur
C’mon, Kenn, you know the answer: downhill!
L.E.
Color photos are rather unique at this site!