Mount Hood History

Mt Hood Indian Pageant

A lot has come and gone along the old Mt Hood Loop Highway, the name given for the route that started in Portland and followed old Highway 30 along the Historic Columbia River Highway to Hood River then along the present Highway 35 south from Hood River to Government Camp and the back to Portland via Highway 26, the route of the original Barlow Trail and the Mt Hood Highway. Of course it could be travelled in either direction, but either way the route would take one completely around Mount Hood. It’s still a very popular “Sunday drive” for those wanting to get away and see some scenery.

Things have changed through the years – Cars are faster and roads are better. Today one can take the drive and only stop for a quick lunch before they arrive back at home again all within a day, but there once was a time when folks would take the trip on the old Mt hood Loop and take a week long vacation to do it. During those times there were many more stops to be had along the way that were tourist draws such as restaurants, lodges, roadhouses and recreational activities. There were even more camping options back then.

Much of this activity took place prior to World War II but the boom happened soon after the end of the war. Post World War II saw more people able to afford cars and free time and the roads and automobiles were improved. At that time a lot of soldiers were back home from the war and were looking to start a future for them and their families. Some built attractions along the old Loop Highway to try to pull these tourists in and extract some of their money in exchange for entertainment, lodging or meals. One such short lived attraction that sprung up was the Mt Hood Indian Pageant in Brightwood about 15 miles east of Sandy Oregon.

In 1947 one such soldier named Max Gilroy and his wife Virginia had the idea to set up a fort and to recruit Indians to come and setup an encampment and show tourists the ways of the Native American. Max and Virginia were very much interested in Native American history and tradition.

He and his wife Virginia, with help from friends, including Warm Springs Indians that they knew, put all that they had into building the Mt Hood Indian Pageant that included a post constructed Fort Barlow. They advertised “Pageant Performances Daily” and to “Bring your camera”. The fort touted the sale of Indian curios a pioneer restaurant, saddle horse rides and playground and picnic grounds.

There was a grand performance daily where one could observe the Warm Springs Indians as they presented “a view of their aboriginal life prior to the coming of the white man”. During the performance an “Indian brave” would come back to camp, wounded by an enemy tribe spurring the encampment to prepare for war. In time the victorious warrior would “return to camp with prisoner” and a “scalp dance” ensued.

Once peace was restored to the encampment the Indian girls would would dance, a young couple would marry in a ceremony and the chiefs would smoke a peace pipe. Then “with the coming of the white man, the Indians move west in their tragic quest for the freedom they loved so well”. Tourists would watch as if attending a play.

I can’t find evidence that the Mt Hood Indian Pageant lasted more than a season, maybe two. No evidence of the old fort exists today. The location is nothing more than a level piece of land that now contains more modern homes along what is now Brightwood Loop Road, just west of the town of Welches.

If not for a few photographs and postcards, and an advertising flyer or two, this place would be forgotten.

Buster Brown at Paris Fair in Hood River

Buster Brown at Paris Fair in Hood River – Here’s an antique postcard depicting a crowd that had gathered in the street in downtown Hood River, Oregon. They’ve assembled in front of the popular clothing store Paris Fair. Paris Fair was a popular clothing store that was in business in Hood River for 80 years until it closed in 1988.

Buster Brown was a cartoon that was created in 1902 by Richard F. Outcault. The comic centered around a young boy who appeared to be conservative and well behaved but was actually a mischievous prankster and his pet dog Tige. Think of Calvin and Hobbs but with Calvin dressed in a yellow Little Lord Fauntleroy suit and Hobbs willing to bite if he felt it needed. The comic strip was very popular back then and the Brown Shoe Company saw potential in using the character as the mascot for a line of children’s shoes.

Soon after the Brown Shoe Company adopted their new mascot, signing a licensing agreement with Outcault at the 1904 St. Louis World’s Fair, they created a campaign where Buster Brown and his dog Tige would make public appearance at shoe stores around the country. They would use Little People to act the part of Buster Brown. Young and old would come to these events to see Buster Brown, and many pair of shoes were sold. It was so successful that Buster Brown shoes have been popular beyond extent of the life and popularity of the cartoon character Buster Brown and are still a popular brand of children’s shoe today.

The Paris Fair Department Store advertised and promoted the event in the Hood River Glacier Newspaper and by the look of the size of the crowd it was a successful event. You can see people, young and old, pouring out into the streets in front of Paris Fair showing, even back then, how celebrity endorsements sell shoes.

Multnomah Falls History – The Bridge Over the Falls

Multnomah Falls History – The Bridge Over the Falls – Multnomah Falls is a two tiered waterfall located in the scenic Columbia River Gorge just east of the city of Portland. It was formed about 15,000 years ago as a result of the cataclysmic Missoula Floods, a series of massive floods that scoured out the Columbia River Gorge. It has a total height of 620 feet, with the upper falls being 542 feet and the lower segment being 69 feet. It’s the tallest waterfall in Oregon and the second tallest year-round waterfall in the United States, fourth largest if seasonal falls are included.

Multnomah Falls was named according to a legend of the local native Multnomah people that tells the story of how a beautiful maiden sacrificed herself to save the tribe from a plague by throwing herself from the top of a cliff. The tribe was saved and a creek formed at the top of the cliff creating Multnomah Falls.

From 1884 until World War II the ORNCo Oregon Railroad and Navigation Company operated a train stop at Multnomah Falls. It was around this time that the “bow string truss” bridge across Multnomah Creek, at the same location as the present Benson Bridge, was built. Somewhere around 1891 the bridge was reinforced but by 1899 the bridge was gone, most likely decayed and washed into the creek.

In 1915 a lot was happening in the gorge. Tourism was increasing on the steam powered sternwheelers and train excursions but would soon be replaced by automobile traffic on the soon to be completed, and now historic, Columbia River Highway. With this tourism comes the need for hiking trails. Many of the established trails were being improved and new ones were being made. One in particular was recommended by Samuel Lancaster to the Progressive Business Men’s Club of Portland to build a trail from the base of Multnomah Falls to the top of Larch Mountain to the south and the source of Multnomah Creek.

The club raised money and with donations from Portland businessman Simon Benson and his son Amos worked with the US Forest Service to establish the trail and a fire lookout on Larch Mountain. Simon Benson then hired Italian stonemasons to construct a bridge to allow access to the trail for visitors to the falls. The bridge is named Simon Benson Bridge in his honor.

That same year Benson donated 1,400 acres of land, including the land where Multnomah Falls is located to the city of Portland. Subsequently the ORNCo donated the land at the base of the falls, where their train station was located, to the city in agreement that a lodge would be built there the same year. The stone Multnomah Falls Lodge’s construction was commissioned that year and the lodge was completed in 1925.

The historic Columbia River Highway was completed and dedicated in 1917 allowing Portlanders to easily take a bus or drive an automobile through the gorge while stopping at it’s amazing waterfalls, especially Multnomah Falls. The Benson Bridge is still used today and provides breathtaking views of the falls up close and personal. It has become a part of Multnomah Fall’s history.

The Legend of Multnomah Falls – Native American Antiquity

31 Jan 2013 … Multnomah Falls is located on the Oregon side of the Columbia River … I AM mixed Native and Rainbow Child and have heard this story many …

Photos of An Early Oregon Silent Movie

The Filming of an Oregon Silent Movie on Mount Hood

I recently came across an intriguing series of photographs documenting the filming of an early Oregon silent movie on Mount Hood. These images capture a crew of photographers and actors reenacting a mining scene. A wooden sluice stands in the background, while men with shovels appear to be panning for gold. Another scene features armed men, seemingly defending their claim.

Dating the Film: Clues from Government Camp

One of the photos provides a key clue about the film’s timeframe. Government Camp is visible in the background, showing Dr. Kelly’s cabin and the old Timberline Climbers Cabin. This structure once stood near the future site of Timberline Lodge. Given these details, I believe the images most likely document the filming of A Nugget in the Rough, a silent movie shot on Mount Hood in 1917.

A Story of Gold Miners

The movie appears to revolve around gold miners. Several images depict men using a sluice to pan for gold on the slopes of Mount Hood. In another, the miners brandish rifles, possibly protecting their claim. After acquiring the photos, I discovered additional scenes filmed in Portland. These town scenes include log buildings, a makeshift settlement, and a saloon filled with miners spending their earnings. A group of “painted ladies” adds to the Old West atmosphere.

Preserving a Piece of Oregon’s Film History

Owning these photos has been both exciting and bittersweet. They offer a rare glimpse into early filmmaking in Oregon, possibly among the first silent films shot in the state. However, I feel disappointed that the collection was split up and separated over time. These images are historically significant, capturing the pioneering days of Oregon cinema.

The story of A Nugget in the Rough and its filming on Mount Hood deserves more recognition. Perhaps, with further research, more details about this lost piece of history can come to light.

List of films shot in Oregon – Wikipedia

This list of films shot in the U.S. state of Oregon are listed first by region, and then … The first documented film made in Oregon was a short silent film titled The …

Climbing Mount Hood Back in 1906

This is an old privately made Real Photo Postcard of a crew of three friends taking a break from hiking or climbing on Mount Hood.

The writing on the front reads: “Crater Rock Mt Hood – Steaming Rocks – August 22nd, 1906”. Climbing Mount Hood has always been a popular sport with tourists over the last 100 years. Although Crater Rock is not the summit of the mountain it’s a healthy hike above Timberline to get to that location.

This photo was taken in the summertime when climbing Mount Hood is the most dangerous so it’s most likely that this group didn’t make it to the top.

Mount Hood – Wikipedia

It has convenient access and a minimum of technical climbing challenges. About 10,000 people attempt to climb Mount Hood each …

Oliver C. Yocum:

Oliver C. Yocum – The Photographer, Climber, and Pioneer Who Became a part of Mount Hood’s Legacy

I love Mount Hood, history, and photography. When I can bring all three together in one story, I’m happy. Loyal readers of my blog may remember my article about Jennie Welch and her photography, which played a key role in preserving the history of Welches and the Mount Hood area. I’m sure that Oliver C Yocum inspired her.

Before Jennie Welch took her first photo, another Mount Hood icon was pushing the boundaries of photographic technology in the Pacific Northwest. That man was Oliver C. Yocum, a pioneer in both photography and exploration.

A Pioneer’s Journey to Oregon

Oliver C. Yocum, known to everyone as “OC,” traveled the Oregon Trail with his parents in 1847. He was just five years old when he arrived in Oregon. His family settled in Yamhill County, where he grew up working on the family farm and taking on odd jobs.

By age 17, OC had already explored multiple trades. He worked as a clerk in the family hotel in Lafayette, trained as a saddle maker, and even studied law in his spare time. At some point, he struck out on his own, fueled by a love of Shakespearean novels. He joined a traveling troupe that performed plays in mining camps, setting up portable stages to entertain gold prospectors.

A Life in Photography

Eventually, OC returned to Lafayette, where he met Ann Robertson, another Oregon Trail immigrant. She had arrived in Oregon as a two-year-old. The couple married, and OC spent time working as a builder, cabinet maker, and grain buyer.

In 1881, they moved to Portland, where OC entered the photography business. At the time, photography was a complicated and messy process. Photographers used wet plate photography, which required them to prepare a glass plate with chemicals, expose it, and develop the image within 15 minutes. This process required a portable darkroom, usually in the form of a tent.

However, in 1871, a new method called dry plate photography revolutionized the industry. By 1879, factories began manufacturing pre-coated dry plates, making photography much easier. OC Yocum became the first person in Oregon—and possibly the Pacific Northwest—to manufacture dry plates. This advancement made photography more accessible and allowed people to carry cameras into the outdoors more easily.

First Photographs from Mount Hood’s Summit

OC Yocum climbed Mount Hood for the first time in 1883. During that trip, he carried a large 8” x 10” wooden camera and its accessories, which together weighed nearly 50 pounds.

On that climb, he captured the first photographs ever taken from the summit of Mount Hood. That experience also sparked his love for the south side of the mountain, which would define much of his later life.

A Life Built Around Mount Hood

For several years, OC spent winters working as a photographer in Portland and summers at Government Camp, climbing and photographing Mount Hood. He seized every opportunity to ascend the mountain.

In 1887, he joined a climbing party that illuminated the summit, a tradition that later became famous. He also helped found the Mazamas, Portland’s premier climbing club, in 1894. OC guided climbers to the summit of Mount Hood until the age of 67.

A New Career and a Homestead on Mount Hood

While OC loved photography, he eventually changed careers due to health issues. Portland’s smoky air and exposure to harsh photographic chemicals caused pulmonary problems, leading him to seek fresh mountain air.

In 1890, he moved to Mount Hood full-time. He homesteaded, built a sawmill, and continued guiding climbers. That same year, he began working as a surveyor. Then, in 1900, he built the first hotel in Government Camp, marking a turning point for the small mountain town.

Selling His Business and Studying Dentistry

OC lived on Mount Hood until 1911. At 69 years old, he decided to sell most of his businesses in Government Camp to Lige Coalman, who would later become a legend himself.

Instead of retiring, OC took a surprising turn—he moved back to Portland, enrolled in North Pacific Dental College, and studied dentistry.

A Lasting Legacy on Mount Hood

OC Yocum passed away in 1928, followed by his wife Ann in 1930. Though many remember him as a mountaineer, surveyor, and hotel owner, his contributions to photography are often overlooked.

However, his name lives on in Mount Hood’s geography. The rugged Yocum Ridge, one of the most challenging routes on the mountain, carries his name. Likewise, Yocum Falls, a picturesque waterfall on Camp Creek, remains another tribute to his adventurous life.

Oliver C. Yocum was a man of many talents. Whether through photography, climbing, surveying, or guiding, he left an indelible mark on Mount Hood’s history—one that still inspires adventurers today.

Yocum Falls (Clackamas County, Oregon) – Wikipedia

Yocum Falls, is a waterfall located in the heart of the Mount Hood National Forest, … the west slope of Mount Hood, comes from businessman Oliver C. Yocum.

A Harley on the Columbia River Highway

Photos of a Harley on the Columbia River Highway

Here’s a series of photos from 1927, ten years after the opening of the Historic Highway, showing a young man and his Harley Davidson motorcycle. It must have been in the Winter as there seems to be snow and rock fall in the photos.

One of the photos clearly shows road signs with familiar destinations – Portland, Sandy, Bull Run, Gresham, Troutdale and the Columbia River Highway. The best part of the photo is the additional temporary sign that reads “Columbia River Highway Closed To Through Traffic” placed in on top of one of the road’s stone and concrete guard rails. The second one shows some stone rubble along a roadway which looks much like a winter day at unstable spots along the old road today.

Views of Portland Oregon and the Columbia River Gorge

20 Assorted Views of Portland Oregon. Here’s a great assortment of views of Portland Oregon and the

On The Summit of Mt. Hood in 1915

A Glass Slide of The Summit of Mt. Hood

The Summit of Mt. Hood circa 1915 – This is a “Magic Lantern” slide from my collection. It shows a climber standing on the top of Mount Hood with the old Summit House fire lookout station built by the legendary mountain man Lige Coalman.

All of the lumber was carried up the mountain by hand, with Lige doing most of the carrying. Lige found it difficult to find men who would work as hard as him. Most of those whom he hired lasted only a day or two before quitting. Once the building was built Lige routinely carried barrels of heating oil and other supplies to the lookout.

This structure was built in the Summer of 1915. By 1941 it had deteriorated to bad that it was pushed over the edge.

Climbing Mt. Hood FAQ | Mazamas

Standing on the summit of Mt. Hood, the highest point in Oregon at 11,250 feet, is a lifelong dream for many aspiring mountaineers. The Mazamas have been …

Horseback Riding on The Historic Columbia River Highway

A Day on the Historic Columbia River Highway When It Was New

The Birth of a Scenic Highway

In 1915, excitement filled the Columbia River Gorge just east of Troutdale, Oregon. Plans were underway for the construction of what would become the Historic Columbia River Highway.

At that time, access to the gorge remained limited. Traditionally, travelers relied on steam-powered sternwheelers from Portland. Over time, railroads were built, primarily for trade, but passenger trains soon carried visitors on day trips. Excursions to the waterfalls along the south side of the river became popular, with Multnomah Falls as a top attraction.

Horses and wagons were still common, but the rise of automobiles created demand for better roads. The existing dirt wagon roads were rough and unreliable. Recognizing the potential of a scenic automobile route, several prominent Portland businessmen imagined one of the first paved highways in the country. Their vision led to the creation of the Columbia River Highway.

Early Opposition and the Highway’s Rapid Growth

Although now considered a cultural treasure, not everyone supported the idea. Many residents still relied on horses, and only the wealthy owned automobiles. At the time, most people never expected to own a car, let alone use one for touring the Columbia River Gorge. Public support for funding the project remained uncertain.

Despite this, the highway was built. Within two decades, it became a major transportation route, carrying cars from central Oregon to the Willamette Valley. The rise of heavy trucks transporting goods further increased traffic. Soon, the highway was overburdened, prompting plans for a riverside road—what would eventually become Highway 84.

Exploring the New Road on Horseback

Construction on the Historic Columbia River Highway progressed in 1915, though its official dedication wouldn’t take place until 1917. That didn’t stop curious visitors from venturing out to admire the engineering marvel. Unlike today’s traffic-filled road, the highway then offered a peaceful setting. Some, like Harry and Alvida Calvert, even explored it on horseback.

Harry Calvert, a photographer from Oregon City, set out with his wife, Alvida, to survey the highway’s progress. They documented their journey through personal photographs—snapshots of their adventure and life together.

Capturing History: The Calverts’ Photographs

Their photos showcase familiar landmarks along the Historic Columbia River Highway, including:

Crown Point
Latourell Falls and its now-removed arched footbridge
Bishop’s Cap
Shepperd’s Dell Bridge
Multnomah Falls, including a rare image of one of them on the Simon Benson Bridge between the upper and lower tiers

Harry and Alvida took turns posing with their horse, Pat, capturing moments that transport us back in time.

A Ride That’s No Longer Possible

Today, a horseback ride along the Historic Columbia River Highway would be impractical. Yet, over a century ago, it was possible. Thanks to Harry and Alvida, we have a glimpse into a time when the highway was new, quiet, and full of promise.

Their photographs preserve a moment in history, reminding us of the visionaries who built this road and the travelers who experienced its early days

Historic Columbia River Highway | Columbia River Map

Sep 21, 2011 … About 14000 years ago, cataclysmic floods scoured out the Columbia River Gorge. Early visionaries engineered an inspired drive along its …

Jennie Welch Mt Hood Photographer

A Forgotten Photographer of Mt. Hood

Not as well known as some of her contemporaries, Jennie Welch deserves recognition as one of Mt. Hood’s early photographers.

Today, nearly everyone is a photographer. With cell phones in hand, we capture moments effortlessly. In 2018, taking a photo of friends, family, or scenic places requires little thought. A century ago, photography was far more challenging. Cameras were bulky, film was expensive, and results were unpredictable. Photographers had to wait days—or even weeks—to see their images unless they developed them at home. Yet, despite these challenges, photography enthusiasts persisted.

The Role of Early Photographers

At the turn of the 20th century, photographers ranged from professionals to hobbyists with home darkrooms. Many traveled door to door, offering their services to those without cameras. They captured portraits, family gatherings, homes, pets, and prized possessions like new automobiles.

Postcards became a popular way to share photographs. Many people ordered prints on postcard backs, making it easy to send images to distant friends and family. Souvenir shops also stocked photo postcards of local landmarks. For tourists, buying a postcard was often easier than dealing with film and cameras.

Some photographers became well-known for their work, producing thousands of postcards. Others, like Jennie Welch, remained more obscure. Instead of mass-producing postcards, she created just enough to sell in local gift shops and country stores. One such place was Billy Welch’s Hotel.

Jennie Welch: Postmaster and Photographer

In 1905, Billy Welch established the Welches Post Office at his ranch, serving as postmaster. He later married Jennie Faubion, the daughter of Oregon Trail pioneers and local homesteaders. In 1940, Jennie became the Welches postmaster, holding the position until 1960.

Jennie had a deep love for antiques. She collected early photographic prints, including daguerreotypes, ambrotypes, and tintypes. Her interest in photography extended beyond collecting—she also took photos herself.

A Local Photographer’s Legacy

Although Jennie is mostly remembered for her passion for antiques, few realize she was one of the first local photographers in Welches. She took photographs and likely had them developed and printed as postcards for sale in the Welches Store and Post Office. Unlike other photographers who produced high volumes, Jennie made only a small number. Today, her postcards are rare, often going unnoticed until a keen-eyed collector identifies one.

Despite her lack of widespread recognition, Jennie Welch should be included in the history of early 20th-century female photographers. Her photos capture the history and beauty of Welches, preserving scenes that would otherwise be lost to time.

A Lasting Impact

Today, Jennie’s photos are considered rare and collectible. The era of postcard photography and traveling photography salesmen has long passed, but their work remains. Thanks to photographers like Jennie Welch, the history of Mt. Hood and its communities lives on.

Oliver C. Yocum – Mount Hood Photographer – Mount Hood History

2 May 2019 … Before Jennie Welch took her first photo another Mount Hood icon was … Oliver C Yocum, known to everyone as “OC”, came to Oregon in a …