In late September 1916, what began as a summit climb on Mount Hood turned into a dramatic rescue that made headlines across Oregon and beyond. The story of the Anton and Helen Edlefsen Mount Hood rescue, important in its time, has become one of the mountain’s least remembered survival tales.
Jennie Faubion Welch lived a life that stretched from ox teams to automobiles, from split cedar cabins to resort hotels, and from forest stumps to fairways. Born on September 27, 1881, she bridged generations of history and became one of the last living links to the pioneer families who gave Welches, Oregon its name.
Arlie Edward Mitchell was born on December 6, 1886, near Sandy, Oregon. Raised in the shadow of Mount Hood, he grew up with a deep connection to the mountain and the communities that surrounded it.
Introducing Steven Mitchell Welches Oregon – Steven Overton Mitchell was one of the last of a generation who carved out their lives in the rugged foothills of Mount Hood. Known to most as “Steve,” he lived quietly and humbly in the mountains near Welches, Oregon, where he became a local legend for his endurance, independence, and devotion to the forested solitude he called home.
Located along U.S. Highway 26, Sandy, Oregon is the last major town before reaching Mount Hood. It serves as a gateway for travelers heading to ski resorts, hiking trails, and high country lakes. The town is small but active, with a population of about 13,000 and a long history of logging, farming, and outdoor tourism. Sandy is also a center of community life for nearby rural towns like Brightwood, Welches, and Rhododendron.
