Mrs. M. E. Henderson: Columbia River Highway Roadhouses

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.

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Multnomah Falls History: The Story of Benson Bridge

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 was built.

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Steven Mitchell – Husband of the Hills

Steven Mitchell was legend on Mount Hood in his times, as well as his son Arlie, who was the last tollgate keeper at the Rhododendron Tollgate of the old Barlow Trail Road. Lige Coalman, who was raised by Steven, was also a legendary mountain man on Mount Hood in his own right.

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Chief Tommy Thompson: Guardian of Celilo Falls and the Salmon People

Chief Tommy Thompson and his wife Flora

Chief Tommy Kuni Thompson, a revered leader of the Wyam people, served as the salmon chief of Celilo Village for over eight decades. Born along the Columbia River in the mid-19th century, Thompson dedicated his life to preserving Indigenous fishing rights and cultural traditions at Celilo Falls—a vital fishing and trading hub for Native communities for thousands of years.

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Battle Axe Inn, Government Camp, Oregon

For many years, the Battle Axe Inn in Government Camp stood as the heart of Mount Hood’s south side. It hosted search and rescue operations, community dances, and winter holiday celebrations. Skiers and travelers alike found comfort beside its massive stone fireplace after long, cold days in the snow.

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