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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 …

Samuel Welch 1880 Welches Pioneer

Samuel “Uncle Sam” Welch: A Pioneer of Welches, Oregon

Journey to the West

Samuel Welch left Virginia in 1842 at the age of 19, embarking on the arduous journey west along the Oregon Trail. He traveled down the Columbia River, portaging around Celilo Falls, before settling briefly in Brush Prairie, Washington. However, the lure of fertile land drew him south to Oregon, where he eventually claimed land near Orient, east of Gresham. It was here that he began to establish his roots in the Pacific Northwest.

Building a Home and Family

On February 20, 1865, Samuel married Francis Culbertson, and their son William “Billy” Welch was born on December 24, 1866. The father and son would go on to shape the history of the region. In 1882, Samuel and Billy each took 160-acre land claims in the Salmon River Valley, a pristine expanse near Mount Hood. Over time, their holdings grew to encompass nearly 1,000 acres.

The Welch's Ranch, Welches Oregon — The Welch’s Ranch, Welches Oregon

Establishing the First Resort

Samuel farmed his land, raising livestock and cultivating orchards, but his greatest contribution came in 1893 when he and Billy started the first resort in the area and established the town of Welches. Initially a simple campground, it provided a welcome respite for travelers, hunters, and vacationers eager to explore the scenic beauty of the region. Their venture marked the beginning of the hospitality industry in the Mount Hood area, long before ski resorts and luxury lodges became the norm.

Early Settlers of the Region

Samuel Welch was not alone in his pioneering efforts. Just four miles downstream on the Salmon River, J.T. McIntyre established a homestead in what was then called Salmon, Oregon—later known as Brightwood. In 1891, McIntyre built a hotel, catering to travelers much like the Welches’ campground. These early settlers helped lay the foundation for the communities that still thrive along the Mount Hood corridor today.

Samuel Welch’s Lasting Legacy

Samuel Welch passed away in 1898, but his son Billy carried on his legacy. Billy continued to operate the resort and, in 1905, became the first postmaster of Welches, overseeing the town’s post office until 1940. Under his stewardship, Welches grew into a bustling summer retreat, known for its dances, community gatherings, and outdoor recreation.

The Evolution of Welches

The land that Samuel and Billy Welch once called home would eventually evolve into the Mt. Hood Oregon Resort, a well-known destination that continues to attract visitors seeking the tranquility of Mount Hood’s forests and rivers. Though the early log cabins and campgrounds have long since disappeared, the spirit of Uncle Sam Welch remains embedded in the town that bears his name.

Samuel Welch Enduring Pioneer Spirit

From a young man braving the Oregon Trail to a respected pioneer who helped shape a community, Samuel Welch’s story is one of resilience, vision, and a deep connection to the land. His name endures, a testament to the pioneering spirit that continues to define the Mount Hood region today.

The Welch’s Ranch Welches Oregon

Welches Oregon before tourists Back before Welches Oregon became a destination it was a ranch, Samuel

Welches, Oregon

after Samuel Welch, a homesteader from Virginia who settled near Welches Creek in 1882 with his son, William, after the death of Samuel’s wife. Samuel Welch

Welches Oregon Pioneer Homesteaders

A Historic Photo of Welches Oregon Pioneer Homesteaders

This rare historic photo captures several Welches Oregon pioneer homesteaders, some of the first settlers in the Mount Hood region. Likely one of the earliest known images from the Welches area, it documents the people who helped shape the future of this mountain community.

Pictured in the front row are Billy Welch and Firmer Walkley. Standing behind them are August Hornecker, Sam Welch, John Copper, and Ira Welch. The photograph was taken at the Walkley homestead, located near the junction of Welches Road and Bridge Street.

Tawney’s Mountain Home: A Legacy of Hospitality

The Walkley property later became the site of Tawney’s Mountain Home, a rustic mountain retreat built in 1909. For forty years, it welcomed guests from across the region seeking rest and recreation in the shadow of Mount Hood. Tawney’s closed in 1949, and the structure was demolished around 1955 after falling into disrepair.

The Welch Family and the Foundation of Welches

Among the Welches Oregon pioneer homesteaders, Billy Welch and his father Samuel “Sam” Welch were central to the area’s development. Arriving in the 1880s, they each filed land claims and eventually amassed over 1,000 acres. In 1893, Sam and Billy opened one of the area’s first resorts—a campground that became the heart of early tourism on Mount Hood.

Their efforts helped establish Welches as a name synonymous with hospitality and adventure, paving the way for the future growth of the community.

The Pioneer Spirit Lives On

The early Welches Oregon pioneer homesteaders—including the Welches, Walkleys, Horneckers, and Coppers—were more than settlers. They were builders of a legacy that still defines the character of the Welches area today. Their names and stories live on in local landmarks, oral histories, and photographs like this one.

This image is more than just a snapshot—it’s a window into the foundational history of Welches, Oregon.

Welches Oregon Pioneer Homesteaders

Brightwood Museum and Novelty Shop: Mt Hood Loop History

A Piece of Brightwood History

The Brightwood Museum and Novelty Shop—known to many locals as the Snake Pit—was once a popular roadside stop along the old highway to Mount Hood. Located at the intersection of Bridge Street and Brightwood Loop Road, it sits today in quiet decay near the Brightwood Store. But once, this log cabin-style building drew the attention of curious travelers and vacationing families.

Built by Henry Steiner, Master Cabin Builder

This unique structure holds special historical value because it was the final log building constructed by the legendary Mount Hood craftsman Henry Steiner. Best known for his iconic cabins and lodges across the region, Steiner built this structure specifically as a souvenir shop for tourists passing through Brightwood on their way to the mountain. Over the years, the building also served as a church, a private residence, and even briefly operated as a reptile garden.

The Road to Mount Hood: Slower Days, Quirky Stops

Before Highway 26 was widened and straightened into the fast-moving route it is today, a trip to Mount Hood was a leisurely journey. Especially after World War II, families packed their cars and hit the road in search of fresh air, fishing, and mountain recreation. Roadside attractions—often referred to as “tourist traps”—were part of the charm of the drive.

In addition to the Brightwood Museum and Novelty Shop, the area boasted other quirky destinations like the Swiss Gardens and the Mt. Hood Indian Pageant. These attractions helped define the postwar tourist era on the mountain’s south side.

A Local Landmark in Decline

Although time has taken its toll, the building still stands as a reminder of the golden age of roadside tourism. Sadly, it’s now deteriorating and largely forgotten. But for those who remember its heyday—or discover its story today—it remains a cultural landmark worth preserving in memory, if not in restoration.

If you’re driving through Brightwood, take a moment to stop by the parking lot of the Brightwood Store. You’ll find the old log structure still standing, weathered but resolute, whispering stories of a different time in Mount Hood’s history.

Rhododendron Oregon Centennial and History

100 Years of Rhododendron Oregon and Mount Hood Tourism

I produced a video to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the little Mount Hood village of Rhododendron Oregon. It’s a collection that consists of photos that I’ve collected through the years and have added to my collection. There are a couple that are in the video that are copies of photos from the Welch Family as well as the family of Dr Ivan Wooley.

Rhododendron, Oregon | Things to do, hotels, & attractions

Located along the Mt. Hood Scenic Byway on a 19th-century pioneer wagon route, Rhododendron nestles into the western flank of the craggy peak. The terrain.

Uncle Sam Welch’s Ranch in Welches Oregon

From Homestead to Tourist Destination

The Beginnings of Welches

The history of the Welch’s Ranch in Welches Oregon begins in 1882. Before Welches became a popular destination, it was simply a family homestead ranch. Samuel Welch, an emigrant from Virginia, settled in the valley that year. Later, his son William “Billy” Welch and Edward Kopper, Billy’s first wife’s father, also homesteaded in the valley in 1889.

Establishing the Welch Ranch

Samuel and Billy Welch homesteaded adjoining 160-acre sections of the Salmon River Valley, located on the southwestern foothills of Mount Hood. Samuel’s homestead deed, signed by President Benjamin Harrison, was recorded in the Clackamas County Courthouse in 1893. Similarly, Billy’s deed, signed by President William McKinley, was recorded in 1898.

Over time, they expanded their holdings, acquiring nearly 1,000 acres that stretched from Walkley’s homestead in the south to “Dutch Fred’s” homestead in the north (near present-day Fairway Avenue). Their land also extended up the slopes of Hunchback Mountain to the east and Huckleberry Mountain to the west.

A Thriving Ranch and Early Tourism

The Welch Ranch was a fully operational farm with pastures, barns, and corrals for livestock, including dairy cows, beef cattle, sheep, and pigs. In addition, the family maintained an apple orchard, a large vegetable garden, and had access to abundant fish in the river and wildlife in the surrounding hills. A blacksmith shop and stables further supported the ranch operations.

As travel increased, the ranch became a stop for stagecoaches and later, motorized coaches en route to Mount Hood. Eventually, summer tourists began camping in the valley, taking advantage of its natural beauty.

Transition to a Resort

After Samuel’s death in 1889, Billy took over the ranch. Sadly, his first wife, Mamie Kopper Welch, passed away in 1902. By 1905, Clinton Kern and a Mr. Wren leased the property and opened a hotel resort, operating it until 1909. As part of the resort’s development, a large dining hall was built near the Salmon River to accommodate guests.

To replace the old dance hall, Billy expanded his store, adding a pool room and a second-story dance hall. Notably, the hall featured an east-facing balcony where dancers could cool off while enjoying views of Hunchback Mountain.

Community and Entertainment

In 1911, Billy married Jennie Faubion. Together, they managed the resort, store, post office, and dance hall. Meanwhile, the Welches Post Office had been established in 1905, with Billy serving as postmaster until 1940. Afterward, Jennie continued in the role until her retirement in 1960. Eventually, the post office moved to Wemme before returning to Welches.

The local community often gathered for bonfires, taffy pulls, and marshmallow roasts. Children collected wood for towering bonfires while families sang folk songs like “Ninety-Nine Blue Bottles.” Moreover, talented storytellers entertained crowds late into the night.

Saturday night dances were a highlight, drawing nearly everyone in town. Parents brought blankets for their children, who slept in the hall’s corners while lively fiddle music filled the air. Typically, Billy Welch and other local musicians played old-time tunes as dancers whirled through two-steps, schottisches, and waltzes.

Growth of Tourism

By 1910, Welches had become a sought-after summer destination. In addition to the Welches Hotel, nearby lodges such as Tawney’s Mountain Home, Arrah Wanna Lodge, and the Rhododendron Inn catered to vacationers. To meet increasing demand, Billy expanded the ranch into a full-fledged outdoor resort, adding tent cabins and campgrounds along the Salmon River.

As interest in the area grew, Billy allowed repeat visitors to camp on designated plots. Eventually, he subdivided and sold land for vacation cabins. The Kaderly family built the first vacation cabin south of the hotel by relocating Samuel Welch’s original homestead cabin.

Development of Local Businesses

Around 1885, Samuel Welch sold five acres to John and Mary Roberts of Gresham. Their son, Ed Roberts, worked in the Welches Store before marrying Dora Owens in 1903. Later, in 1913, Ed opened Roberts Country Store near the Welches Hotel, expanding the town’s commercial offerings.

The Welches Golf Course

In 1928, Ralph Waale leased Welch’s pasture and built a nine-hole golf course. He operated it until 1939, when ownership returned to the Welches. Shortly after, Billy and Jennie continued running the course until Billy’s passing in 1942. Over time, it changed hands multiple times before being sold to Eugene Bowman.

The Lasting Legacy of the Welch Ranch’s Ranch in Welches Oregon

Billy Welch played a pivotal role in shaping Welches into a tourist destination. His foresight in converting the ranch into a resort laid the foundation for the town’s growth. Though the original homestead is gone, the legacy of the Welch family endures in the community that still bears their name.

The Welch’s Ranch in Welches Oregon.

CLICK HERE to read more about the development of the Mt Hood Golf Course, Rippling River and the Resort on The Mountain.

Mrs Pierce of Welches Killed a Bear With a Hoe

Mrs Pierce of Welches Killed a Bear With a Hoe – I have spent a lot of time talking with old timers and family

Mrs M.E. Henderson’s Crown Point Chalet

The Crown Point Chalet was one of the premier roadhouses along the Historic Columbia River Highway back in the day. And the indefatigable Mrs M. E. Henderson was a key player in the early days of hospitality along the old road.

In 1912 a Mr. & Mrs. A.R. Morgan built the Chanticleer Inn on a promontory just east of Corbett, with an incredible view to the east of the scenic Columbia River Gorge, the Chanticleer Inn became a popular destination for Portland’s affluent on their forays into the scenic Columbia River Gorge. Managed by Mrs. M. E. (Margaret) “Bidy” Henderson the inn became known for its hospitality and its delicious meals. By the following year the new Columbia River Highway was being pushed through the Gorge. Mrs. Henderson left the Chanticleer Inn to start her own venture at Latourell Falls. She named it The Falls Chalet. She enjoyed great success at this beautiful road house with a spectacular view of the falls, but within a year it was destroyed by a fire.

Leaving Latourell and returning to the vicinity of the Chanticleer Inn she acquired a site on a promontory of land that would soon be the site of the Vista House, and a very popular stopping point for automobile tourists. It was here she decided to build The Crown Point Chalet. The Inn had a commanding view situated above and to the south of Crown Point.

The Crown Point Chalet opened for business in May of 1915. For over ten years Margaret enjoyed great success. But with the Depression looming and Mrs. Henderson’s health fading she sold the Chalet in 1927. Moving to Portland she started a very small dining room on Alder St. The Depression was the final blow and she went bankrupt. Her health worsened and in April of 1930 she passed away at the age of 58. Mrs. Henderson contributed greatly in the promotion and the successful completion of the Columbia River Highway.

The old lodge fell into disrepair and was demolished sometime in the early 1950’s.

Crown Point, Oregon – The Columbia River

“Cape Eternity” … Vista House … “Crown Point Falls” … Campsite of November 2, 1805 … Views from Crown Point … “Crown Point Chalet” … “Gardner’s Cafe” .

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 …

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 …