Howard’s Hotel at Sharon Springs: A Lost Piece of Zigzag’s History

A Mysterious Rock Wall and a Forgotten Hotel

As you drive along the east end of Barlow Trail Road near the confluence of the Sandy and Zigzag Rivers, you may notice an old moss-covered rock wall. Weathered by time and nature, this beautifully crafted basalt and stone wall stands as a silent sentinel to the past. Yet, few—if any—know its origins. A 1920 map already labeled it as an “old rock wall.” Historical accounts mention it as a marker near old bridge brow logs from an original Barlow Trail crossing. But why was it built? What once stood behind those stones?

Piecing together historical maps, newspaper articles, and land records points to one answer: Howard’s Hotel at Sharon Springs. Built in the early 1910s, this long-forgotten inn lasted only a few years before fire destroyed it. Unlike the well-remembered Welch’s Hotel in Welches, McIntyre’s early hotel, or the Rhododendron Inn, Howard’s Hotel vanished from collective memory. Yet, its story is worth rediscovering.

The Mount Hood Road and the Growth of Tourism

The land where Howard’s Hotel stood was known as Sharon Springs, named after a small, year-round spring that still flows into Clear Creek near the Sandy and Zigzag Rivers. W.R. McGarry originally owned the land and subdivided it in the early 1900s as tourism in the Mount Hood region grew.

This growth followed the expansion of the Barlow Road, a pioneer-era route that later became a toll road. By the early 1900s, it transitioned into an automobile road, drawing more visitors. Travelers sought lodging along the way to Government Camp and Mount Hood’s higher elevations. Hotels and lodges sprang up to serve them.

Seeing an opportunity, Mr. and Mrs. Archibald Howard built a hotel at Sharon Springs, close to the Barlow Road and Mount Hood’s foothills.

Howard’s Hotel: Built for the Boom

Constructed in 1910, Howard’s Hotel was a three-story, 14-room cedar structure. It stood on the north side of the Sandy River along the old north bank road.

From the start, challenges arose. In 1911, a freshet washed away a crucial bridge over the Sandy River near the hotel and damaged two others, the Zigzag River and Bear Creek bridges. Access became difficult, forcing visitors to detour through Brightwood, where J.T. McIntyre had built a bridge.

Plans to rebuild the bridges were made, but the setback likely hurt the hotel’s early success. Meanwhile, competitors like Welch’s Hotel and the Rhododendron Inn thrived with easier access.

The Fire That Erased Howard’s Hotel

On a September night in 1912, disaster struck.

A report in The Oregonian (September 14, 1912) stated:

“The home of Mr. and Mrs. S. Howard, near the junction of Sandy and Zigzag River, in the Mount Hood district, known as the Howard Hotel, was destroyed by fire a few nights ago, and Mrs. Howard, who was alone at the time, barely escaped with her life. Fire started in the lower story from sparks from the fireplace after Mrs. Howard had retired for the night in an upper room.”

Mrs. Howard woke to flames blocking the stairs. Forced to escape through a side window, she fled in her night robe.

The hotel burned completely, with nothing saved. The financial loss ranged from $3,500 to $4,000. With no efforts to rebuild, Howard’s Hotel disappeared from both the landscape and local memory.

Why Has Howard’s Hotel Been Forgotten?

Unlike Welch’s Hotel, the Rhododendron Inn, or McIntyre’s Hotel, Howard’s Hotel lasted barely two years. No surviving photographs or major advertisements recorded its existence. Without a rebuilt structure or continued operation, history left it behind.

Nearby hotels thrived because they became part of a lasting tourism infrastructure. Welch’s Hotel evolved into the town of Welches. Rhododendron and Government Camp grew into permanent tourism hubs. But Howard’s Hotel faded, leaving only the rock wall as a possible clue to its past.

A Call for Further Investigation

The rock wall remains the only visible evidence of Howard’s Hotel. Its basalt and stone construction, multiple entryways, and elevated stone columns suggest more than a simple boundary wall.

Could forgotten records, lost photographs, or hidden remnants beneath the forest floor reveal more?

For now, the story of Howard’s Hotel at Sharon Springs remains an intriguing historical mystery—one that deserves to be remembered.

Conclusion: Preserving the Lost History of Howard’s Hotel

Howard’s Hotel burned in 1912, but its legacy should not be forgotten. Among the histories of Welches, Brightwood, and Rhododendron, it represents the challenges of early tourism in the Mount Hood wilderness.

Next time you pass through Zigzag, take a moment to consider the rock wall, the spring at Sharon Springs, and the stories hidden beneath the surface.

The past is still there—waiting to be uncovered.

Echoes from Pompeii Oregon

The Early Days of Government Camp Oregon

There’s a ton of excellent information in this 1911 Oregonian article about the very early days Government Camp/Pompeii Oregon.

The area where Government Camp is located had been known by that name since 1849 when the Regiment of Mounted Riflemen, enroute from Fort Leavenworth Kansas to Fort Vancouver, attempted to cross over the early Barlow Trail late in the season, possibly November or even December, and were faced with severe winter weather. They abandoned 45 wagons that were loaded with supplies, before descending Laurel Hill and down into the Valley. Since then the area had been known as the government camp.

Oliver Yocum, one of the original homesteaders there, was petitioning the postal service for a post office there. He wanted to name the town Government Camp, but the post office had a rule that the name couldn’t be two words, which always seemed to be odd to me considering New York had a post office, but I digress… O. C. Yocum decided that, due to it’s position on the side of a volcano, he would name the town Pompeii Oregon. That didn’t last long before the post office adopted its proper name – Government Camp Oregon.

“The Sunday Oregonian – Sun, May 14, 1911

POMPEII ENJOYS BOOM – SETTLEMENT IN SHADOW OF MOUNT HOOD SHOWS LIFE

Sawmill, Hotel, Water Works, and Electric Lighting and Power Plant Being Built.

The sawmill erected at Pompeii, Government Camp, by O. C. Yocum four years ago collapsed on March 5, causing Mr. Yocum a loss of $3,000. However, it is now being rebuilt by Elijah Coalman, who recently bought the 120-acre tract and Mountain Hotel there.

Transfer of the machinery for the new sawmill was accomplished under remarkable difficulties. Mr. Coalman took possession of the property at Pompeii on March 9 and began erecting the new sawmill. The machinery was hauled by horses to within three miles of Pompeii on wagons. The last three miles of the trip were made on sleds drawn by man power over eight feet of snow. Despite the difficulties, the men, under the direction of Mr. Coalman, overcame the challenges, and the sawmill is now nearing completion. Mr. Coalman expects to start cutting lumber for the new hotel in about 10 days. He currently has about 75,000 feet of logs in the mill yard.

The Meldrum Flume Company has its piping for Pompeii on the ground, and by the middle of summer, the water system will be completed and operational. The surplus water from the plant will be used for power purposes and to operate an electric lighting plant.

Pompeii was founded and named by veteran mountain guide and pioneer, O. C. Yocum. It is the last and only place from which the ascent of Mount Hood can be made from the south side. There will be six hotels in Western Hood this year—one each at Pompeii, Rhododendron, Welch, Maulden, Brightwood, and Howard. Another hotel is under construction on Salmon River for the Mount Hood Hotel Company by Kern & Routledge.

The new Mountain House at Pompeii will contain 50 rooms; the Mount Hood Hotel Company will offer 40 rooms, and the other resorts have been improved and enlarged.”

Arrah Wanna Hotel in Wemme Oregon

A History of Arrah Wanna

The Birth of Arrah Wanna Hotel

Nestled in the picturesque surroundings of the Salmon River in Wemme, Oregon, the Arrah Wanna Lodge began its story in 1909 when George Routledge acquired 160 acres of timberland. At the time, the land sat about a mile from the nearest automobile road, making it an ideal mountain retreat.

That same year, the Mount Hood Hotel Company, led by C. W. Kern, J. R. Routledge, and R. Woods, announced plans to construct a Swiss Chalet-style hotel. Kern had previously operated the Welches Hotel for five years. By 1910, construction had begun on an 80 x 90-foot, two-story building with 40 rooms and wide verandas. The hotel featured rough timber finishes, large stone fireplaces, and running water. The estimated construction cost reached $20,000, and the hotel planned to open for the 1910 season.

Early Years and Challenges

Although the hotel was completed, financial struggles soon arose. Nevertheless, its location and design attracted conventions and gatherings, including a YMCA conference in 1916. Despite these successes, ownership changed in 1918 when J. L. Bowman of the Brownsville Woolen Mill Store in Portland purchased the property. Bowman then leased the hotel to Mr. and Mrs. George L. Spencer, who enhanced its reputation as a high-class resort. They introduced specialty meals, such as chicken dinners and the famous “Spencer Hot Gingerbread.” A giant fir tree near the hotel became a major attraction, measuring 41 feet in circumference and 300 feet tall.

A Tragic Fire and Rebirth

On June 5, 1922, tragedy struck when the Arrah Wanna Hotel burned to the ground. Strong winds fanned the flames, reducing the wooden structure to ruins in just 30 minutes. Fortunately, the surrounding cottages and J. L. Bowman’s summer home survived the disaster.

Determined to rebuild, Bowman oversaw the construction of a new hotel by May 1924. The new lodge featured 17 guest rooms and 10 bungalows. Built primarily of native fir with hard maple floors, the hotel also included modern conveniences. An electric plant at the Salmon River provided power, while hot and cold running water improved guest comfort. Traditional activities such as hiking, trout fishing, and berry picking remained popular. Additionally, a boardwalk along the river and new bungalows enhanced the visitor experience.

Growth and Changing Management

John L. Bowman passed away in July 1928. As the president of the Brownsville Woolen Mills, he had played a significant role in the history of the Arrah Wanna Hotel for a decade.

Throughout the 1920s and 1930s, the Arrah Wanna Hotel underwent various management changes and improvements. Advertisements promoted dining options, including their specialty $1.50 chicken dinners with mashed potatoes and gravy. Entertainment such as music, dancing, and campfire gatherings enriched the guest experience. By 1936, the lodge began serving beer under a new license. Despite these efforts, financial difficulties persisted, leading to periodic closures and the hotel being listed for sale or lease.

Oregon Baptist Church Buys Arrah Wanna

In 1941, the lodge entered a new chapter when a Baptist church group purchased the property for $12,750. Their vision was to create a summer camp, leading to the birth of Camp Arrah Wanna. That summer, the camp hosted its first youth retreat. A five-year improvement plan soon followed, adding a Bible house, tabernacle, dining hall, and swimming pool. Over time, the camp became a cornerstone for religious retreats and youth activities in the area.

Into Modern Times

By 1952, a new swimming pool was constructed, and in 1962, $50,000 was allocated for further improvements. Beginning in 1969, Camp Arrah Wanna became one of the locations hosting Portland Public Schools’ Outdoor School program. During this six-day outdoor experience, sixth-grade students learned about science and nature while immersing themselves in the wilderness.

Today, Camp Arrah Wanna remains under the ownership of the American Baptist Churches of the Central Pacific Coast. It serves as a retreat and recreational facility, also hosting conferences and events for various groups.

Legacy of the Arrah Wanna Hotel

From its early days as a luxurious mountain hotel to its transformation into a church camp and community center, the Arrah Wanna Hotel has played a vital role in Oregon’s history. Its scenic location, engaging activities, and mountain lodge charm continue to captivate visitors. As a beloved landmark in the Mount Hood area, its legacy endures, reflecting the rich heritage of the region.

Fires, Fear, and Fighting Back: The Week the Forest Burned Near Mt. Hood

The Forest Fires of October 13-17, 1952

A Dry Season Sparks Trouble

Late in the season, around midnight on October 13, 1952, trouble began in the dry forests surrounding Mt. Hood. Flames appeared south of the Mt. Hood Highway, just east of Rhododendron, near Yocum Falls. As the fire moved down through Laurel Canyon, it stretched toward Flag Mountain. Initially, officials suspected a tree had fallen on a power line, sparking the blaze. However, the Sandy Electric Company suggested that men violating the hunting ban may have started the fire instead of the 33,000-volt power line.

Mt Hood National Forest Fires of October 1952

Fires Spread Across the Region

Meanwhile, a second fire erupted when windblown embers ignited dry vegetation near Still Creek, along the north slope of Zigzag Canyon. As a result, flames threatened summer homes and caused landslides, sending large rocks tumbling toward the Zigzag River. Consequently, firefighters faced an increasingly dangerous situation.

By Tuesday, October 14, another fire had ignited. This time, flames burned up Henry Creek toward Devils Canyon near Rhododendron. Since dry east winds were blowing with typical intensity, they fanned the flames. Therefore, firefighters struggled to contain the rapidly spreading fires.

Road Closures and Evacuations

Due to the growing danger, officials closed the Mt. Hood Highway. Roadblocks went up in Sandy and Bend, allowing only emergency vehicles and buses to pass. As a precaution, traffic had to be rerouted through the Columbia River Gorge or the North Santiam Highway. Firefighters hosed down wooden bridges along the highway while residents sprayed their roofs with water, trying to keep embers at bay. Understandably, people in Rhododendron prepared to evacuate if necessary. The county’s civil defense agency remained on high alert, ready to assist should homes become threatened.

Arson Suspected in Brightwood

By Wednesday, October 15, conditions worsened. A third fire ignited near Brightwood around noon. Flames burned through thick ferns and second-growth timber. Unfortunately, local residents reported seeing two teenage boys speeding away in a blue coupe just before the fire started. Consequently, police issued an alert, but the suspects were never found.

A Threat to Bull Run Watershed

By Thursday, October 16, tensions ran high. The Brightwood fire moved toward the Bull Run watershed, the primary water source for Portland. Since winds carried the flames up Boulder Creek, they brought them dangerously close to Bull Run. Meanwhile, in Rhododendron, a 120-man crew worked tirelessly to build a fire line around the Henry Creek blaze. More than 400 firefighters battled flames across the region. At the same time, at Zigzag Ranger Station, local women volunteered to prepare sandwiches, helping to sustain the exhausted fire crews.

Firefighters Gain Control

Finally, on Friday, October 17, firefighters gained the upper hand. Crews, totaling 700 men, worked around the clock to contain the fires. By this point, the Brightwood blaze alone had consumed between 300 and 400 acres. In total, an estimated 1,200 acres burned before firefighters managed to control the destruction. Despite the progress, northeast winds and low humidity kept everyone on edge, hoping for much-needed rain.

A Community United

In the aftermath, the fires left a lasting impact. However, they also demonstrated the strength of the community. Firefighters risked everything to contain the flames, while residents took action—hosing down homes, preparing food, and offering support. Although the forest would recover, the stories of that harrowing week of the Forest Fires of 1952 would endure for generations.

Preserving the History

These photos are scanned from negatives in my personal collection, capturing the unforgettable events of that historic fire.

Portland’s Buffalo Bill – William DeVeny

Zigzag Cabin Owner: A Local Legend

In the early 1900s, Portland’s Montavilla neighborhood was home to one of its most fascinating figures: Dr. William DeVeny. Known as the “Buffalo Bill of Portland,” William DeVeny was a community leader, civic advocate, and larger-than-life character. His influence stretched beyond Montavilla and into the Mount Hood region, where he worked to improve access to the wilderness.

DeVeny’s striking appearance—long hair, a thick beard, and signature buckskin attire—earned him his nickname. According to some accounts, Buffalo Bill Cody himself gave him the title. Yet, DeVeny was more than just a local icon—he was a man of action.

A Visionary for Montavilla

DeVeny dedicated himself to improving Montavilla. As secretary of the Montavilla Board of Trade, he led efforts to attract new businesses, including a fruit cannery, chair factory, and broom factory. He also pushed for better schools, clean water, and libraries, believing these essentials would help Montavilla thrive.

One of his most ambitious projects was Montavilla’s annexation to Portland. He argued that annexation would bring stronger infrastructure, including deeper water mains to prevent freezing and increased school funding. Although his campaign initially failed, he continued to fight for it.

In 1907, he ran for city council, hoping to create more change. However, his campaign faced controversy when petition collectors submitted duplicate signatures. Though DeVeny did not commit fraud, officials removed his name from the ballot. This setback ended his political aspirations, but not his commitment to the community.

He saw the need for better roads in the region. To improve access, he led the construction of a road connecting the Mount Hood automobile road to Truman Road on the north side of the Sandy River. The project, called DeVeny Road, required the building of several bridges. This new route made travel easier for settlers, forest rangers, and tourists.

Building Roads to Mount Hood

DeVeny’s passion for development extended into the Mount Hood wilderness. He owned a cabin near the mountain, which he called The Scout’s Rest, inspired by Buffalo Bill Cody’s Nebraska ranch.

By 1913, construction was complete. This road became a key link for travelers and helped boost tourism in the Mount Hood region. Eventually, it was renamed Lolo Pass Road, but DeVeny’s work remains a vital part of the area’s history.

A Complex and Evolving Figure

DeVeny’s views changed over time. Once a supporter of military training for boys, he later spoke out against war, particularly as World War I approached. Some believe he changed his stance because his sons became eligible for the draft.

Beyond civic work, DeVeny was a skilled chiropodist (foot doctor) and an accomplished photographer. Alongside his wife, Martha, he operated photography studios before settling in Portland.

He also supported women’s suffrage and equal rights, reflecting a progressive mindset that was ahead of his time.

A Lasting Legacy

Dr. William DeVeny passed away in 1918 at age 65. The Oregonian honored him as a civic leader, community advocate, and friend of famous frontiersmen. His contributions to Montavilla and Mount Hood shaped Oregon’s history in ways still seen today.

Today, hikers in Mount Hood’s forests and residents in Montavilla’s streets walk paths influenced by his work. His life is a powerful reminder of how one determined individual can shape a community’s future.

The Mountain View Inn

A Lost Landmark of Government Camp

This historic photo captures the Mountain View Inn under heavy snow during the 1940s. Once a well-known hotel in Government Camp, Oregon, the inn played a key role in the town’s early ski culture. However, in 1955, a fire destroyed the building, leaving only memories behind.

A Pioneer Homestead Becomes a Hotel

The building originally belonged to Lena Little, wife of Francis C. Little, a pioneer homesteader. It first served as a private residence, but later, workers moved it to the north side of the main road in Government Camp. This relocation allowed it to become a hotel, serving visitors drawn to the growing ski scene.

Jack Rafferty’s Lodge and the War Years

After the move, Jack Rafferty leased the building and transformed it into a hotel and ski lodge. At first, he named it Rafferty’s or Rafferty’s Hut. Later, he purchased the property, establishing it as a local business.

During its early years, the hotel also went by the name Tyrolian Lodge, reflecting Government Camp’s Alpine influence. However, World War II forced the hotel to close, as tourism slowed and many businesses struggled.

A New Era: The Mountain View Inn

After the war, Harry Albright reopened the lodge and renamed it The Mountain View Inn. As tourism grew, Government Camp became a major skiing destination. With more visitors arriving, the inn became a popular stop for travelers heading to Mount Hood.

A Fiery End in 1955

In 1955, tragedy struck when the Mountain View Inn burned down. It once stood across the street from Daar’s Ski Shop, which later became Charlie’s Mountain View, a well-known landmark today.

Although the inn is gone, its history survives through photographs and stories. This image, showing the snow-covered hotel, serves as a reminder of Government Camp’s past and its early skiing culture.

The Mt Hood Skiway Tram

. The Mount Hood Aerial Transportation Company was formed with a plan to create an aerial tramway to Timberline Lodge on the south slope of Mount Hood from Government Camp, the gathering spot for every activity on The Mountain. It was to be called The Skiway

Tawney’s Mountain Home

Tawney’s Mountain Home: A Forgotten Retreat in Welches, Oregon

A Hidden Gem in the Salmon River Valley

In the early days, the Welches Hotel wasn’t the only resort in the Salmon River Valley at the base of Mount Hood. About a mile past the Welches property, at the end of the road, sat Tawney’s Mountain Home. Surrounded by wilderness and nestled along the Salmon River, this hotel operated as a popular outdoor vacation spot from 1910 to 1945.

From Homestead to Hotel

The hotel was originally part of the Walkley family homestead, located south of Welches. While the Walkleys didn’t run a formal hotel, they did take in boarders. In 1906, John Maulding and his wife purchased the 100-acre property, which included the Walkley home. They remodeled and expanded the house, converting it into what became known as Maulding’s Hotel.

In 1909, Francis H. Tawney and his wife, Henriett, leased the property. A year later, they purchased it and began making improvements. However, in 1913, a fire destroyed a large portion of the original hotel. Undeterred, the Tawneys built a two-story addition, and by 1914, the new Tawney’s Hotel was welcoming guests once again.

A Grand Lodge with Rustic Charm

Tawney’s Hotel was a large two-story building with 15 guest rooms. Due to its popularity, tent cabins were added on the grounds to accommodate additional visitors.

Guests entered through a spacious living area featuring a large rock fireplace. A grand staircase led to the second floor, where the guest rooms were located. Connected to the living room, a huge dining room offered another stone fireplace and a long dining table for communal meals.

The hotel had only one indoor bathroom, located off the dining room. It included a commode and a bathtub, making reservations nearly necessary for guests who wanted to use it.

A Stay at Tawney’s Mountain Home

A week’s stay at the hotel cost $10, including meals. Mrs. Tawney, with help from her daughter-in-law, Emily, prepared food for guests. Meals were served family style, with platters of chicken, roast beef, and steak. Fresh bread, jams, canned foods, and homemade pies were always available. Mrs. Tawney also made large sugar cookies for the children, though adults often raided the cookie jar as well.

Keeping the kitchen stocked was no small task. Up to 150 guests might arrive for Sunday dinner, requiring a constant supply of food. Staples and canned goods were delivered weekly from Portland, while a butcher wagon from Sandy made daily summer deliveries, bringing cuts of beef and lamb packed in ice.

Living Off the Land

The Tawneys maintained their own livestock, including cows, pigs, and chickens. Guests could ride horses, and children often enjoyed rides on the two donkeys.

Mr. Tawney frequently took guests on wagon trips to Government Camp for huckleberry picking and picnic lunches. The property also included a large garden, an apple orchard, and wild berry patches for pie-making. Guests sometimes supplied trout from the Salmon River and local creeks, adding to the hotel’s menu.

In 1910, a group of three fishermen—B. Trenkman, C.J. Cook, and L. Therleson—ventured to Camp Creek for a fishing trip. They returned 1.5 hours later with 286 trout, making it one of the most legendary meals ever served at Tawney’s Mountain Home.

A Place for Summer Memories

Longtime Welches resident Nell Howe recalled that summer days at Tawney’s were filled with wonderful food and laughter. She said, “In the summertime, the tables in the dining room were full for every meal, and sometimes people were waiting their turn.”

Many guests fondly remembered their time at the lodge—swimming in the river, fishing, helping with chores, and enjoying the delicious home-cooked meals.

The End of an Era

By 1945, Tawney’s Mountain Home closed its doors, likely due to declining business and wartime shortages. The Tawneys, now older, stepped away from the demanding work of running the hotel.

Mr. Tawney passed away in 1947, and soon after, Mrs. Tawney moved to Portland to live with her daughter and son-in-law. She remained there until her passing in 1959.

A Fading Legacy

In the late 1950s, the abandoned lodge collapsed under the weight of a heavy snowstorm. A new owner later purchased the land and demolished the remains, leaving only the two original stone fireplaces standing.

Today, these fireplaces serve as the last visible reminders of Tawney’s Mountain Home—a once-thriving piece of Welches, Oregon’s history

Oregon pioneer history

Oregon pioneer history (1806–1890) is the period in the history of Oregon Country and Oregon Territory, in the present day state of Oregon and Northwestern

The History of The Mt. Hood Golf Course

A Golfing Gem in the Salmon River Valley

Nestled deep in the Salmon River Valley, at the foothills of Mount Hood, lies one of Oregon’s first and most scenic golf courses. Today, the course is part of a full-service resort, offering luxury amenities, stunning views, and a relaxing escape for golfers and vacationers alike. Mt. Hood Golf Course

Mt. Hood Golf Course – The Beginnings: A Vision in 1928

In 1928, Ralph Shattuck and George Waale envisioned a golf course on Billy Welch’s pasture. They leased the land from Billy Welch with an option to buy and constructed the first nine holes, naming it The Mt. Hood Golf Course. This course became Oregon’s first golf resort, putting Welches on the map as a destination for golf enthusiasts.

The first nine holes, originally known as “The Original Nine,” are now called “Pinecone.” Shattuck and Waale managed the course until 1939, when Billy and Jennie Welch reclaimed the property. After Billy Welch passed away in 1942, Jennie continued to operate the business on her own.

Changing Ownership and Expansion

In 1944, Jennie Welch sold the property to J.P. Lich and his wife, Oberta. Over the next few years, ownership changed hands multiple times:

J.P. Lich sold the course to Leo Hueval, who later defaulted on payments.
The property returned to J.P. Lich, who then sold it to Eugene and Peggy Bowman in 1948.

The Bowmans renamed the course to “Bowman’s Golf Club” and added a second nine-hole expansion, known as “Thistle.” This addition, built on land cleared by J.P. Lich, transformed the course into an 18-hole facility. The Bowmans successfully ran the business until 1978.

Further Growth and Resort Development

In 1973, American Guaranty purchased land across the road from the golf course. They built a conference center, restaurant, and lodging facilities, setting the stage for a full-scale resort.

By 1979, they bought out the Bowmans and merged the golf course and resort under the name “Rippling River Resort.” A third nine-hole course, called “The Red Side” (now “Foxglove”), was added, making it Oregon’s only 27-hole course at the time.

The Resort Era: A Scottish Influence

In 1989, Ed and Janice Hopper purchased the resort and rebranded it as “The Resort at The Mountain.” Ed Hopper, who had Scottish ancestry, introduced a Scottish theme throughout the property, giving it a unique identity.

The Hoppers operated the resort until 2007, after which it changed ownership multiple times. Today, the resort is known as “Mt. Hood Resort,” continuing its legacy as a premier destination for golfers and visitors to the Mount Hood region.

Mt. Hood Golf | Golf | Mt. Hood Oregon Resort

Pinecone was established in 1928 and is often referred to as the “Original Nine.” This scenic course offers 360-degree views of the cascading hills of the Mount …

Adolph Aschoff’s Letters Home

A Full Circle Connection

History has a way of coming full circle. Even postcards sent over 100 years ago from the other side of the world can find their way home. As a collector of old photos and historic photo postcards, I am always drawn to items that hold historical significance, especially those connected to the communities surrounding Mount Hood. This is a story of Adolph Aschoff’s Letters Home

During one of my searches, I came across a fascinating discovery—a postcard from Marmot, Oregon, written by Adolph Aschoff and addressed to his nephew in Germany. It was being sold by a dealer overseas, and I immediately knew I had to have it.

A Hidden Collection Unearthed

After purchasing the postcard, I asked the seller if he had more. At first, he had only found one in a shop in town. However, he offered to return and check for additional cards. To my surprise, he located and sold me six postcards in total, all written by Adolf Aschoff in meticulous longhand German script. The handwriting was so small and precise that reading it practically required a magnifying glass.

Since I do not speak or read German, I reached out to friends for help. Fortunately, my friend Bill White suggested that his German friend, who lives in Germany, might be able to translate them. Without hesitation, I scanned the messages and emailed them to Bill, who then forwarded them to his contact.

The Translations and a Deeper Story

Several weeks later, Bill sent me six translated documents. Each contained the original German text along with its English translation. As I read through them, I felt both excited and deeply grateful to finally understand Adolf’s words.

Originally from Celle, Germany, Adolph Aschoff settled in Marmot, Oregon, in 1883. There, he built Mount Hood’s first resort, Aschoff’s Mountain Home. Known for his cheerful and enthusiastic personality, he welcomed guests with warmth and hospitality, ensuring they had an unforgettable experience.

However, these personal letters reveal a more intimate and emotional side of Adolf. Life was not always easy. His writings express worry, stress, and heartbreak, shedding new light on the struggles and hardships he faced. Despite his outward joy, these messages offer a glimpse into his challenges and personal battles.

These postcards are more than just old letters. They provide a rare window into history, allowing us to better understand the life, emotions, and experiences of one of Mount Hood’s most iconic early settlers. Adolph Aschoff’s Letters Home.

For more information about Adolf and the town of Marmot you can read about it at this link. CLICK HERE

Below are the photos and their messages.

The Letters To Home

Marmot, Oregon, July 16, 1908

My dear Otto!

It always goes on in business, from early in the morning to late in the evening. A lot of annoyance and little joy is my experience. Again I just lost a beautiful horse, my wife thought a lot about the (poor) animal. She called it hers. We have a lot of rain and it is quite cold and then we have very deep paths again – everything seems to go wrong, even in nature.

On the other side (of the postcard) you can see our house. No. 1 is my wife, No. 2 is a maid. I keep my two year old German stallion.

Best regards. Your old (friend)
Adolf Aschoff

Marmot, Ore. March 22, 1910 6 am

Dear Otto!

We are desperately awaiting a sign of life of you from the old homeland with every incoming mail – and from day to day – week to week etc. I am trying to find the time and opportunity to write to you. I have not been well for quite some time now – I suffer headaches – melancholy etc. I wish I could sell us – had a great offer but my wife wasn´t please. If I don´t try to visit Germany soon – I will probably never see it again. Both of our sons, Ernst and Henry, are now fathers of two strong boys. – We had an awful time with our three daughters in the last year – all three of them had major operations in the hospital, and now our Emma is back at the hospital and is being operated again.

On the other side (front side) you see Gustav, our youngest son on a foal, as he was riding it for the first time, he is 15 years old.

Please, write to me very soon.
Have a happy Easter wishes you your uncle
Adolf Aschoff

Marmot, Ore. July 19, 1910

Dear Otto,

Your endearing letter has been received. Your letter has doubled the desire to see you and the beloved old homeland – I know I would be welcome at your home and if you knew me better, you would know that a westerner does not cause any inconvenience – We have loads of trouble, loads of work – with the hay harvest and everything adds together – The salary for the workers is very high – chef (lady) $70.00 per M, house maid $20-25.00, day laborers $2.50 – $4-5 per day. I don´t know how this is going to end. All workers only want to work 8 hours – but we are usually working 18 hours a day – will write as soon as I have a few minutes to myself

Best wishes from all of us,
Your uncle Adolf Aschoff

Marmot, Ore. February 25, 1911

My dearest Otto,

I hope you have received the newspaper “The Oregonian”, I am sending you the same one, so you can get an idea of the growth of the American cities. As we arrived in Oregon, Portland was about the size of Celle – now Portland has more than 230,000 citizens. We are well, except for Otto, who has been in the hospital for months. Best wishes to you and your dear family.

Your uncle Adolf Aschoff.

PS: I will try to write you a letter soon.

Marmot, Ore. 6/13/1912

My dear Otto,

I haven´t heard anything from you for quite some time now, I try to receive a sign of life, “an answer” to this postcard. I am sending you a newspaper with this letter and I send more if you are interested.

Various accidents have again happened to our family. Our daughter Marie is very sick – our son Ernst has fallen of a …?…. post and our son Otto has chopped himself in the leg. Due to the incautiousness of a stranger I have been thrown of my carriage and I suffer pain in my right arm and shoulder. More work than ever, I wish we could sell us, it is getting to much for my wife and me – from 5 am to 11 pm day to day we slave away (like ox) without a break. Dear Otto, I hope you and your loved ones are well and at good health.

The most sincere wishes from all of us to you and your dear family.

Your uncle Adolf Aschoff

Marmot, Ore. January 30, 1913 – To: Mrs. Adele Aschoff

My dear friends,

Marmot shows a different picture these days than on the other side of this card. The snow has started to melt, but it will take a long time until the last traces will be gone.

Our dear daughter Marie is still very sick, it is better on some days and then she suffers bad seizures.

Best wishes,

Your Adolf Aschoff

Marmot, Ore. Nov. 19. 1916

My dear Adele, (Mrs. Adele Aschoff)

Thank you very much for your wishes – I am very happy that our dear Otto is still healthy and I hope that he soon will be back with his loved ones well and brisk. Please send him my best regards. I haven´t received anything from Eugen in the last months – newspapers etc. No news have arrived since February from you as well as Eugen. My son Karl has broken his arm when he started (? “up-winded”) an automobile – my wife is very sick again. Please write back to me even if it´s only a few lines.

With the best regards

Your uncle Adolf Aschoff

Adolf Aschoff and Marmot Oregon

Adolf Aschoff and Marmot Oregon’s History Marmot Oregon is a place more than it is a town. It is located

Adolph Aschoff – Wikipedia

Adolph Aschoff (May 21, 1849–1930) was a homesteader in the U.S. state of Oregon in the late 19th century. He established the community of Marmot, Oregon …

Government Camp Oregon

The History of Government Camp, Oregon

A Historic Mountain Town on Mount Hood

Perched at 4,000 feet in elevation on the south face of Mount Hood, Government Camp, Oregon, has long been known as a ski town. Long before ski resorts arrived, adventurers made their way to Mount Hood in the winter for snowshoeing and skiing and in the summer for hiking and exploring.

Today, Government Camp is home to the iconic Timberline Lodge, a national historic monument. Built during the Great Depression as part of the Works Progress Administration (WPA), Timberline Lodge remains one of Oregon’s most treasured landmarks.

However, the history of Government Camp stretches back nearly two centuries. Long before it became a destination for outdoor enthusiasts, it played a role in westward expansion and the early days of the Oregon Trail.

How Government Camp Got Its Name

In May 1845, the United States government allocated $75,500,000 to establish military posts along the Oregon Trail. However, when the Mexican-American War broke out, those plans changed. Instead of focusing on Oregon, much of the effort shifted to support the war.

A few years later, in 1849, Lieutenant William Frost led a massive wagon train from Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, to Fort Dalles, Oregon. The scale of this expedition was immense:

429 wagons
1,716 mules
250 tons of freight

While part of the group traveled by boat to Vancouver, the remaining wagons were sent over the Barlow Road toward Oregon City. Unfortunately, this decision had dire consequences.

The mules were exhausted, and overloaded wagons struggled on the rugged terrain. As winter approached, conditions worsened. By the time the wagon train descended Laurel Hill, 45 wagons had been abandoned due to starvation and exhaustion.

For years, this area became known as “the government camp on Still Creek.” Over time, the name stuck, and it was eventually shortened to simply Government Camp.

The Early Settlement of Government Camp

Although Government Camp had earned its name, it didn’t develop into a town right away. It wasn’t until the arrival of O.C. Yocum, Francis C. Little, and William G. Steel that settlement began.

O.C. Yocum’s Vision

O.C. Yocum filed a homestead claim and platted his land into blocks. He named the north-south streets numerically (1st, 2nd, and 3rd). For the east-west streets, he used the letters of his own name:

Yule
Olive
Church
Union
Montgomery

Originally, Yocum named his town Pompeii. When he applied for a post office under the name Government Camp, the government rejected it, stating that a two-word name was unacceptable. As a result, he changed the post office name to Pompeii.

However, locals never stopped calling it Government Camp, and over time, the name became official.

Hotels and Businesses in Early Government Camp

As travelers increased, hotels and businesses emerged to accommodate them. Several of these establishments played a key role in shaping Government Camp’s reputation as a mountain resort destination.

Notable Hotels and Businesses in Government Camp

1899 – O.C. Yocum built the Mountain View House hotel.
1910 – Lige Coalman purchased the hotel and, in 1911, built the Government Camp Hotel.
1933 – Both hotels burned down.
1924 – Everett Sickler and Albert Krieg built the Battle Axe Inn, a popular gathering place. It burned down on November 7, 1950.
1932 – Charlie Hill built and ran Hill’s Place, located across from the Battle Axe Inn. It operated for decades before burning down in 1969.
The Rafferty Family built a hotel next to the Battle Axe Inn. It changed hands and names several times, known as the Tyrolean Lodge and later the Mountain View before it burned down in 1954.
George Calverly built a café at the east end of town, which his wife managed.

As the 20th century progressed, Government Camp became synonymous with outdoor recreation, particularly with the rise of skiing on Mount Hood.

Government Camp Today: A Legacy of Adventure

Today, Government Camp remains the gateway to Mount Hood’s winter and summer sports. It is home to Timberline Lodge, and the town continues to attract skiers, snowboarders, and hikers year-round.

Though many of its original buildings have disappeared, the spirit of Government Camp lives on. From its Oregon Trail roots to its role in shaping outdoor adventure culture, Government Camp remains one of Oregon’s most historic and beloved mountain towns.

Discover More Mount Hood History

If you love learning about Oregon’s past, check out more stories at MountHoodHistory.com.

Have memories or stories about Government Camp? Share them in the comments below!