History

Looking Back 45 Years After the Mount St. Helens Eruption

Today marks 45 years since the catastrophic eruption of Mount St. Helens, a day etched into the history of the Pacific Northwest—and the minds of everyone who lived through it. On the morning of May 18, 1980, at 8:32 a.m., the mountain violently exploded, forever reshaping the landscape of...

Oregon Caves Chateau Named One of America’s Most Endangered Historic Places

A beloved Southern Oregon landmark is once again in the spotlight — this time, as one of the most endangered historic places in America. The Oregon Caves Chateau, a nearly century-old lodge tucked away in the Siskiyou Mountains near Cave Junction, was officially named to the National Trust for...

Gun Control’s Racist Past and Measure 114’s Future: Disarming the People Who Need It Most

Gun control in the United States has never truly been about public safety—it has been about control. Throughout history, firearm restrictions have been disproportionately used to disarm Black Americans, marginalized communities, and anyone deemed a "threat" to the government’s power. One of the...

Once a Water Station in 1883, This 15,000-Square-Foot Portland Home Will Leave You Awestruck

There’s something fascinating about Portland’s history that never fails to surprise me. Just when I think I’ve read up on all the city’s historical oddities, I stumble upon something entirely new—at least new to me. That was exactly the case when I recently learned about the Palatine Hill Pumping...

The Old Sign That Overlooked Springfield in 1911 That Nobody Remembers

Growing up in Springfield, I thought I knew all there was to know about my hometown. I’ve spent years writing about its history and highlighting all the hidden gems this place has to offer. But it turns out, there was something I had missed — an overlooked piece of history that sat perched on the...
Evil Hour 1845: The Lost Wagon Train of Meek’s Cutoff

Evil Hour 1845: The Lost Wagon Train of Meek’s Cutoff

In the annals of the American West, the tales of mountain men and trailblazers endure as gritty testaments to humanity's fortitude. Among the pantheon of pioneers, Steven Meek, a larger-than-life figure, holds a prominent place. His name, forever engraved in history,...

A Walk Through Portland’s Tranquil Japanese Gardens

A Walk Through Portland’s Tranquil Japanese Gardens

Portland is home to an incredible garden that was planted to heal wounds and bring two cultures closer together. While some locals at first resisted the planting of the garden in 1963, the Japanese Garden has become an Oregon gem and a Portland treasure and is much...

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