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Along the banks of the Willamette River in Portland OR is an impressive wide, paved path to bike, hike, amble, or linger on the way. It's mostly flat, with interpretive signs and installations, benches to watch the water or view the city. The Tilikum Bridge itself is incredible. Parks on the west side of the river are beautiful, with fountains, public art, and both modern and historic architecture. Portland Saturday Market, Memorials, and Museums enlarge the wanderability--not to avoid mentioning the hotels, restaurants, shopping, and transit options all making it a memorable way to spend the day(s). Nearby is the gem of Chinatown: the Lan Su Chinese Garden. Downtown Portland is not too far away if you have the time & energy to go further. Behind OMSI (Oregon Museum of Science & Industry) you can begin a walk or wheel of a 4 mi loop: I went south and passed over the river on Tilikum Crossing, continued up the west side of the river on the Waterfront Park Trail, crossed back over the Steel Bridge to the Eastbank Esplande and returned to where I began at a pay-to-park lot, SE Main & Eastbank Esplande. On the weekend it was only $4.50/day. Choose how much of the loop you want to journey on any particular day and match the stamina of the participants in your party. The eastside has more graffiti (both rude & crude), tenters and trash than the west side of the Willamette. It's too bad, because the city has invested a great deal in making it a pleasant place to explore. I would say it's OK for adults, but not great for young children on the east side much north of OMSI. Kerr bikes rents surreys and a variety of pedals to push: offices on both sides of the river. Portland Bureau of Transportation rents e-scooters and bike sharing (pay by card and leave it where you're done) at various points around the city. Tilikum Crossing is a bridge built just for transit, pedestrians, and bikes, with clearly delineated lanes for safety. The east entry is next to the Portland Opera, where you can use your credit card to get a bike or a scooter. Portland Opera is at the Hampton Opera Center 211 SE Caruthers St. Portland, OR 97214 Walking the West Side of the Willamette Waterfront From Tilikum Crossing I rolled north up Bond Ave, then toward Poet's Beach along the west side of the River, and thence north to South Waterfront Park, South Hawthorne Waterfront Park, and Tom McCall Waterfront Park (where Saturday Market was happening). Poet’s Beach, nearly under the Marquam Bridge, west bank of the Willamette River, Portland, OR 97201 South Waterfront Park, 2001 S River Dr, Portland, OR 97201 Between the Morrison Bridge and the Burnside Bridge: Oregon Marine Museum (a boat on the river) 198 SW Naito Pkwy, Portland, OR 97204 Battleship Oregon Memorial--right across the park from the Oregon Marine Museum
Station Tours, sign up 2 weeks in advance at
Tom McCall Waterfront Park and Waterfront Park Trail; Portland OR Bill Naito Legacy Fountain 2 SW Naito Pkwy, Portland, OR 97204 Portland Saturday Market, Tom McCall Waterfront Park and Ankeny Plaza More of (including plenty of photos) Tom McCall Waterfront Park and Portland Saturday Market, scroll down at: North of the Burnside Bridge: Japanese American Historical Plaza, NW Couch St. & Naito Pkwy--following are photos from 3-26-2022 Scroll down at https://www.travelpacificnw.com/accessible-travel-blog/greater-portland-or And https://www.travelpacificnw.com/accessible-travel-blog/japanese-american-journeys Crossing the Steel Bridge to the Eastbank Esplande, and south to where I began
Unfortunately, plaques about the bridges are largely vandalized along the Eastbank Esplande. I'm choosing to show the more picturesque photos as I wheeled my way south. My electric wheelchair was getting sluggish after the whole day, so I was worried about running out of juice, but I was glad to have a motor: I could never have made it in a manual chair. The Eastbank Esplande has some interesting floating sections, and some fairly steep sections leading down to and up from them. Bridges over the Willamette River, Portland OR Sacajawea and the Corps of Discovery (Lewis & Clark Expedition) traveled down the Columbia in 1805, and back up it in 1806. But I am combining the sites for both ways as one trip west down the Columbia River to the Pacific Ocean: the Washington side, and the Oregon side.
Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center, Cape Disappointment State Park, WA
An illustrated timeline and exhibits about the Corps of Discovery, and a few other displays pertinent to the area. Click on the photos below to enlarge them. Navigate through them by clicking arrows forward and backward. Note: Lewis & Clark didn't name Cape Disappointment, shipboard explorers before them did. Sacajawea (Sacagawea) was literally a native of what’s now Lemhi County ID, a member of the local Shoshone tribe. Salmon (Lemhi county) ID is about an 11 hour drive from Portland, if you can drive it without stopping. Sacajawea Interpretive, Cultural, and Educational CenterVisitor Info
Local Sites, Salmon ID http://salmonidaho.com/local-sites Salmon Chamber of Commerce6 min video (2009)11 min video (2018) When she was about 10-12 years old, Sacajawea was captured by Hidatsa raiders, and ended up near what would come to be called Washburn ND, where she became second wife to Toussaint Charbonneau, a French-Canadian trapper. When Lewis & Clark, with the Corps of Discovery, reached that area upstream from St Louis via the Missouri River, they built Fort Mandan and hired Charbonneau as another interpreter/guide. Sacajawea came with (as was expected), and became a valuable asset, the only woman of the Corps--a new teenaged mother with her baby boy a few months old. She served as interpreter, part guide, symbol of peace (no war parties would include a woman and child), negotiator, food gatherer, and generally helpful member. One of the multitudes of "ordinary" women across time and place, who bravely faced extraordinary challenges without fanfare. Sacajawea’s Life
The Corps of Discovery exhibits in Boise ID The Corps didn't ever go through Boise, but as Idaho's capitol, exhibits in the capitol bldg and the Idaho State Museum have something to show and tell about the expedition that traveled through northern Idaho, and began the state's history that followed. Lewis and Clark National and State Historical Parks – Wikipedia The Lewis and Clark Expedition Lewis & Clark sites in the Pacific Northwest 20 min vide "Blood and Butts - a Lewis and Clark story" 36 min video "Native Homelands Along the Lewis and Clark Trail" (2006)" on YouTube Corps of Discovery, Lewis & Clark Expedition--places to visit in North Dakota Corps of Discovery, Lewis & Clark Expedition--places to visit in Montana
Lolo Pass, Long Camp, Weippe, Canoe Camp--Idaho
Lewiston ID to/from The Nez Perce National Historical Park Visitor Center On the north side of Hwy 12 between Lewiston and the Nez Perce National Historical Park Visitor Center is the Clearwater River Casino & Lodge (including RV camping, gas & convenience store). On the south side of Hwy 12 along the Clearwater River are some pull-outs with interpretive signs about the Nez Perce and Lewis and Clark. Where Hwy 95 temporarily intertwines with Hwy 12 on the north side of Lewiston are some great historic metal statues (The North Lewiston Gateway Project) , including Lewis & Clark and Sacajawea with the Nez Perce. You can enjoy some of the art as you travel south into Lewiston, but most of the works are not placed for picture taking. From the frontage road on the south side of the highway I could at least photograph one set.
Lewis and Clark Center (or Confluence Center), at the confluence of the Snake & Clearwater Rivers, Lewiston ID (here are a few images--it was necessary to take the photos at odd angles to reduce reflection) The way is paved, as a part of the 12-13 mi levee trail along the Snake and Clearwater rivers, but requires the power of a helper or a motor for a person in a wheelchair to manage the inclines of the accesses. On one of my trips I was blessed by a kindly person who volunteered both her time and trouble to help me, and on the other I had an electric wheelchair. The levee trail offers wondrous views of the rivers.
Nez Perce County Historical Museum, Lewiston ID (the parts that apply to Sacajawea/Lewis & Clark) This museum complex has so much to explore! And they have taken care to have great interactive exhibits for kids, helping them get a real feel for history. Visited June of 2021. Pioneer Park, Lewiston ID This park not far, up the hill on 5th from City Center. Beside a Sacajawea statue and interpretive signs, a playground and plenty of running room, picnic tables, band shell, and restrooms, event hosting, it has benches overlooking the city and hills beyond. PDF of Lewiston City parks with addresses, acreage, and amenities A few photos from my visit in June of 2021: Lewis-Clark State College, Lewiston ID I had tried to get photos of the Sacajawea statue on campus when I traveled to Lewiston in June of 2021, but in March of 2022 I found a complimentary handicapped visitor parking space right across from the statue, so got out to get better photos. I'm so glad I did! I found more great statues, and the halls named after Lewis, Clark, Jefferson, beside Sacajawea Hall. As is often the case, the campus has great old architecture as well as modern. I intend to inculde more photos in a later post, but here are some especially relevant to Lewis & Clark. Kiwanis Park, Lewiston ID "One of Lewiston’s premier parks this is a beautifully designed area next to the Clearwater-Snake River National Recreational Trail. The park includes Mtn. Dew Skate Park, playground equipment, and picnic tables and shelter. There is plenty of shade for hot afternoons and it’s just a short walk to the Snake River. Kiwanis Park is a location of choice for local fun runs, and events of all sorts." This has one or more access points to the levee trail, which offers wonderful views of the Snake and Clearwater rivers, but I was very glad in 2022 to have an electric chair, as I was on my own, and to get to the crown of the levee would have been impossible without it. Kiwanis park stretches from about 3rd to 11th along the Snake River, and diagonally opposite on 11th food trucks are parked. Address, map, and links to visitor guides: Lewis and Clark Discovery Center, Hells Gate State Park, Lewiston ID (more to see in person, of course) This was a really awesome place to visit, both indoors and out, as well as to get information. Down the road are boating/jetboating access, a campground, and day use area (all requiring fees). For info and photos of jetboating Hells Canyon, get to the bottom of Meriwether’s Bistro, located in Hells Canyon Grand Hotel--621 21st St, Lewiston ID In June of 2021 I found "cedar-planked potlatch salmon", and thought that appropriate for a core of discovery in Lewiston ID. The Hells Canyon Grand Hotel is grand. I arrived at The Meriwether's Bistro after dark, yet was able to be seated with no reservations. They had mood-setting lights in the outdoor dining space and a good band was playing. The waitress was friendly and helpful (I needed a table situated where I could plug in and recharge my phone). The "plank", served with the salmon atop, was rather small and thin. Never mind that, it was still delicious. Planked Potlatch -Planked Potlatch Salmon Bison Burger at Main St Grill, 625 Main, right downtown Lewiston ID In March of 2022 I hoped I might find some native American snacks at The Nez Perce National Historical Park Visitor Center, or somewhere. Maybe there's a place to find something like bison jerky, native nuts/berries/seeds. Next best was to find a Bison Burger at Main St Grill in Lewiston ID. Any of their burgers can be made a bison burger, so I chose the Avocado Bacon Burger (as far from native food as that is--it's just a nod in that direction), and a side salad instead of fries (for the sake of diabetes). I found a parking spot in front of the restaurant and ordered it by phone (because I could not deploy my van ramp: it would be right in the one-way street); the friendly and kind young woman delivered my food curbside. Clarkston WA Granite Lake Park, Port of Clarkston, Visit Lewis Clark Valley office "This six-acre park is located in the Port of Clarkston. It is landscaped with plants that were native to the area 200 years ago. The park has views of the Snake River and the northern valley hills. There are picnic tables for your enjoyment and paved pathways to take a stroll. You can also access the greenbelt walking path and the dock at Roosters Waterfront Restaurant." In the same area are the Port of Clarkston and the Visit Lewis Clark Valley office. Best Western Inn at Hells Canyon, Bridge Street/Hwy 12, Clarkston WA Not exactly at Hells Canyon, but distances are relative, I suppose. The decor definitely corresponds with the Snake River and Lewis & Clark. This hotel is easy to find, enter, and exit, being right on Hwy 12 aka Bridge St. The lobby is grand, the breakfast area commodious, and they offer not only a nice buffet, but omelets prepared to order. There's a nice gas fire in the dining as well as the patio area. I was pleased to find they had almond milk as well as other choices suitable for diabetics. My room was comfortable, except that I had to fight the bathroom door to maneuver with my wheelchair. I'll save some photos for a later post. Lewis & Clark Timeline at Hells Canyon Resort, Clarkston WA From Bridge St/Hwy 12, turn north at 15th St as if going across the Hwy 128 bridge over the Snake River, but before the bridge watch carefully for the turn to the west to get to the Hells Canyon Resort. Follow Port Dr west to the entrance of the Resort. Just past the buildings, on the right by the water, is the public parking and walkway with the Lewis & Clark timeline embedded in the concrete. Really worth strolling/rolling. Photos below are probably not in order, nor complete. Lewis & Clark Historical Marker Hwy 12 at the side of Red Wolf Golf Club, and Golf Course Pond On the west side of Clarkston WA, Hwy 12, there's a pull-out with an historical marker, the golf course behind it. Just west of that is Golf Course Pond for fishing. The dock looks like it might have a little bit too much of a drop for a solo person in a wheelchair. Might be fine with a helper. West of Clarkston WA, Hwy 12 Chief Timothy Park is an island in the Columbia River 8 mi west of Clarkston WA on Hwy 12, with camping, RV facilities, flush toilets, playground, volleyball, swimming, boating, hot showers in the summer. Lewis & Clark passed through the native village there when Chief Timothy was 5 yrs old. Beyond that a ways is a large Boy Scout Lewis & Clark Trail sign. Hwy 12 leads up into the hills from there (and looking down on the terrain from Google maps could make one dizzy). Alpowa Summit Rest Area--eastbound, Hwy 12 milepost 413, 10 mi east of Pomeroy WA I haven't stopped at the westbound rest stop, I'm not sure it has the interest the eastbound has. Pomeroy WA "Historic Trail: You are now entering Garfield Co. over the historic trail traversed by the explorers Lewis and Clark on their return from the mouth of the Columbia, May 4, 1806," so says the sign on the exterior of Garfield County Museum, a block south of Hwy 12 at 708 Columbia St, Pomeroy, WA. Lyons Ferry/Hwy 261--WA About 20 mi or so west of Pomeroy WA (maybe 12-15 mi north of Dayton WA) on Hwy 12 is the intersection with Hwy 261 to Lyons Ferry State Park. Drive up Hwy 261 about 15 mi to Perry WA, where Lyons Ferry State Park is (past Starbuck WA). A monument in the state park mentions Lewis & Clark passing through on their way west in 1805. Further on is the intriguing Palouse Falls State Park. I had so much else to see, and was uncertain how far it was, so left it for another day.
Tucannon River valley WA About 10 miles north of Dayton WA on Hwy 12, there's a sign for Camp Wooten 30 mi up Tucannon River Rd. It's about 10 miles up Tucannon Rd to the Lewis & Clark campsite memorial. It's a narrowish, undulating 2-lane road, but paved and a pretty drive through the valley. No steep hills. Dayton WA Dayton is an appealing town with a lot of history, including Sacajawea and the Lewis & Clark expedition. I came through in both June of 2021 and March of 2022. I intend to publish more photos of the place in a later post.
Lewis & Clark Trail State Park, WA--Hwy 12 Five miles west of Dayton WA, 4 miles east of Waitsburg, Hwy 12 splits the Lewis & Clark Trail State Park in two. One side is the day-use area, the other is the campground. These are photos from June 2021. In March of 2022 the park was still closed for the winter. Waitsburg and Walla Walla WA Waitsburg is a charming little town, and I intend to post more about it later. From Waitsburg you can continue on Hwy 12 down to Walla Walla, or head west on Hwy 124. Walla Walla has a lot of history, but more to do with the Oregon Trail/Whitman Mission/Fort Walla Walla, which I will cover in part 2 of my Oregon Trail post. In the meantime, here are a few fotos about Lewis & Clark in Waitsburg & Walla Walla. The Corps of Discovery & the Walla Walla Indians Hwy 124 traveling west from Waitsburg Prescott WA is a quiet little hamlet with interesting history, historic architecture, nice little park--I'll post more photos later. But just west of town are a couple interpretive signs relating to Lewis & Clark. Thinking about Lewis & Clark, I noticed the snow on the hills from Agrinorthwest/Eureka Farms, March of 2022. On google maps you can see big circles of irrigated farmland from the air. Ice Harbor Dam, Lake Sacajawea, South Shore Recreation Area, Charbonneau Park
Take Shoreline Dr off Monument Dr to the Indian Memorial as well as Charbonneau Park. You can also take Sun Harbor Dr off Hwy 124, it curves around to become Lakeview Dr. Turn north toward the Snake River on Charbonneau Dr, which becomes Campground Rd. It's not too far off Hwy 124.
Tri-Cities WA and Hwy 730 in WA & OR Sacajawea Historical State Park, Pasco WA This park on the point of the confluence of the Snake and Columbia rivers has a nice little cram packed museum dedicated to Sacajawea and the Corps of Discovery. It has a paved path with interpretive signs, picnic tables, playground, launch accesses, and more amenities. On one visit we saw a flock of turkeys crossing the road to get to the other side. The road to get there goes through the edge of an industrial area, but fear not, eventually it leads to a pleasant park/recreational area. Photos below from Apr 2021, and June 2021. Wallula, Hat Rock, Lewis & Clark Commemorative Trail, McNary Dam overlook--Hwy 730 The Columbia River is the state boundary between Oregon and Washington for most of their border. But as the Columbia bends from the north at the confluence of the Snake River with the Columbia (the Tri-Cities area of Washington), the state line continues straight to the eastern border with Idaho. Thus, following that bend south on Hwy 12 from Pasco WA and Hwy 730 at Wallula Junction, there are more Corps of Discovery sites to discover: a pull-out for Wallula WA history, Hat Rock OR, Lewis & Clark Commemorative Trail from McNary Beach, picnic pull-out overlook of McNary Dam. Wallula interpretive sign pull-out—Hwy 730 just south of the Wallula Junction with Hwy 12
Kennewick & Richland WA Between Hwy 240 and the Columbia River stretches a 400 acre park called "Columbia Park", with lots of picnic options either right on the river or near the other amenities, such as the intriguing "Playground of Dreams", all sorts of sports fields and facilities, Veterans' Memorial, restrooms, and trails. Pertinent to this post is the "Sacajawea Heritage Trail" looping from there over 20 miles as far as Sacajawea State Park at the confluence of the Snake & Columbia rivers in Pasco WA, and for most of the way travels both sides of the Columbia River. There are multiple ways of accessing it, but I first found the access points in Kennewick's Columbia Park. Some access points might be challenging in a wheelchair.
Part Two to come: Sacajawea Trail 2--Traveling down the Columbia River to the Pacific Ocean
Note: updates from 2023-2024 at the end of this page. I happened on the wondrous work above at the Oregon Convention Center the end of January 2022. It inspired me to publish a post for Black History month, though I wasn't sure I had enough content. Over the years my travels have touched on black lives and experiences a bit, and at last I thought I might have enough for a short post. Next to the panel above was a labeled explanation of who and what is depicted: 1. the 25th Infantry Brigade Black Bicycle Corps 2. Beatrice Cannady, 1st black woman to practice law in OR 3. Golden West Hotel, one of the first black-owned hotels in OR 4. Richard Bogle, one of the first successful black businessmen in the NW 5. America Waldo Bogle, wife of Richard Bogle, civic leader 6. escape from slavery to the west 7. Buffalo Soldiers 8. freed slaves headed west 9-10. George Washington, founder of Centralia WA 11. Sacajawea, Lewis & Clark Expedition 12-13. Lewis & Clark 14. York, member Lewis & Clark Expedition 15. Mary Fields, Pony Express rider, stagecoach driver 16. James Becksourth, mountain man, scout, war chief of the Crow 17. slavery & plantation life 18. pioneer caravans of black settlers 1840s-1850s 19. Moses "Black" Harris, mountain man, trapper, trader, guide 20. cattle drive up the Chisholm trail (at one point 2/5 of cowboys were black) 21. Bill Picket, international rodeo star, mentor to Will Rogers 22. "Peerless" Jesse Stahl, once the best wild horse rider in the west 23. black homesteaders had to do so illegally in OR until 1926 (not allowed to own land) I have been gathering photos and info for a "Sacajawea Trail" post for a couple years or so. Since York was on that same journey, I thought I'd use some of those to show something of what that expedition might have been like for him. A couple of interesting points were that both York and Sacajawea were invited to participate in giving their input about where to spend the winter on the Pacific Coast, and neither of them received any compensation at the end of their journey (as all the others did). No doubt the assumption was that paying Sacajawea's husband recompensed her as well, but that doesn't do for York. Here is an interesting, and I think even-handed treatment of York, a 2010 half-hour documentary by Oregon Public Broadcasting, and my 2 part post on the Sacajawea Trail:
From an End of the Oregon Trail museum exhibit about black pioneers in the PNW pictured above: “George Washington traveled to Oregon in 1850 with James Cochran, who freed him before making the journey. After spending time in Oregon City, Cochran and Washington eventually settled near present-day Centralia [WA]. Washington cleared and fenced twelve acres, kept two dairy cows, made his own clothing, and maintained a good relation ship with his Native American neighbors. He nearly became a victim of claim jumping—two white settlers wanted his land and as Washington was African American, he had no legal claim. The Donation Land Claim Act of 1850 expressly prohibited African Americans from homesteading in Oregon—he was technically a squatter. The Cochrans had not yet claimed land of their own, so they rushed to Oregon City to file a claim of 640 acres, including Washington’s farm. Cochran later sold all or a large portion to Washington for $3400. The land was at the Skookumchuck and Chehalis River juncture in Lewis Count. He built a one-room cabin and started a pole ferry on the Skookumchuck River. He Farmed, traveling twice annually to Olympia to sell his grain and saved enough to expand his land holdings. In 1872 the railroad laid tracks nearby and Washington saw his opportunity. With the help of his wife and stepson, he filed a plat for the town of Centerville, later to become Centralia in 1875. Washington turned away speculators and sold $10 lots to anyone who would live on the land. He built houses to rent to poor emigrants and refused to sell property to saloons or other disreputable businesses. Over the years he aided many families by loaning them money and seeing that they were fed. He died following a buggy accident at the age of 87 in 1905.” “George Washington Bush, a free-born African American from Pennsylvania, was deterred by Oregon’s first exclusion law. He emigrated from Western Missouri in 1844 in the same party as John Minto. In his diary Minto noted conversations he had with Bush, who expressed concerns for how he would be treated in the Oregon country. After wintering in The Dalles, Bush headed north of the Columbia River, becoming one of the first Americans and very likely the first African American settler. He homesteaded near Olympia, which placed him out of the reach of the provisional government, as it was under the nominal control of the British. He was a successful farmer and fostered respect within his community due to his generosity towards others. Bush’s widespread support in the community became apparent when he was threatened with the loss of his land. After the state of Washington was organized as a territory in 1853, Bush’s homestead was in jeopardy—the Donation Land Act of 1850 excluded blacks from obtaining free land. Michael Simmons, his old friend from Missouri who had journeyed the Trail with him, campaigned to have Bush’s claim recognized. Fifty-five citizens signed a petition urging exemption. The appeal was endorsed by the Washington Territorial Legislature and forwarded to Congress. [The] US Congress approved a special waiver in 1855 which allowed Bush to legally claim his land. During the severe winter of 1852 grain was in very short supply. Instead of opting to sell at inflated prices, Bush said: ‘I’ll keep my grain to let my neighbors . . . have enough to live on and for seeding their fields in the spring. They have no money to pay your fancy prices and I don’t intend to see them want for anything in my power to provide them with.’” “Louis Southworth was born in Tennessee in 1830 and was brought to Oregon from Missouri in . . . 1851 by his owner James Southworth. After settling for some time in Marysville (now Corvallis [OR]), Southworth mined gold in the Jacksonville [OR] area. He earned additional money by playing the fiddle at dancing schools. Southworth discovered that he could make just as much money performing at mining camps and saloons as he could working in the gold mines. In 1858 he purchased his freedom from his owner. As a free man Southworth worked as a blacksmith in Polk County. He became literate and operated a livery stable. After marrying, Southworth moved to Tidewater, near Waldport, where he made a homestead and later donated land for a school. He served on the school board. Southworth operated a ferry for passengers and freight along the Alsea River. He was a well-dressed man who drove ‘a fine team of black horses’. He was well-respected and treated almost as an equal. In 1915 he recalled that the one thing he couldn’t do was attend church. He had been expelled from the local Baptist congregation when members complained about his fiddle playing. ‘So I told them to keep me in the church with my fiddle if they could, but to turn me out if they must, for I could not think of parting with the fiddle. But somehow I hope it’s written in the big book up yonder where they aren’t so particular about fiddles.’—Louis Southworth” “Abner Hunt Francis . . . was targeted with an expulsion order. He and his brother O.B. were free African Americans who had opened a mercantile store in downtown Portland in 1851 on the corner of Front and Stark streets. Abner was a well-known abolitionist, having been an anti-slavery activist in Buffalo, New York before moving to Portland. He was friend to Frederick Douglass, and his background caused concern among Portland’s anti-black community members. It is likely his new store caused unwanted competition. A justice of the peace ordered Francis, who had been charged with violating the Exclusion Law, to leave Oregon within six months. The order was upheld by Oregon’s Territorial Supreme Court and the time limit was reduced to four months. In spite of a petition signed by 211 sympathetic Portland residents to allow an exemption, the legislature tabled the request and never revisited it. The Francis’ continued to reside in Portland until they voluntarily immigrated to Victoria BC in 1860 where Abner was later elected the city’s first black city councilman.” “Moses ‘Black’ Harris was thought to have come West in 1823. As a skilled trapper and explorer, he gained a reputation of being an expert at winter travel. As the fur trade began to decline, he used his skills to act as a guide for missionaries and wagon trains. In 1836 Harris helped guide the Whitmans and Reverned Henry Spalding to the Oregon Country. In 1844 he led a wagon train of around 500 people over the Oregon Trail, including George Washingtn Bush and the Holmes family. In 1845 Harris rode to the rescue of the Stephen Hall Meek wagon train. Meek [led] his party through ynmapped parts of the Oregon’s high desert. He rode ahead when he stumbled on familiar terrain and rode ahead to The Dalles for help. Harris was the only man willing to lend a hand andundertook the rescue effort himself. He secured supplies from local native tribes and brought them by pack horses. Harris met Meek some thirty miles south of The Dalles. He also later saved a group on the Applegate Trail and helped explore the Cascade Mountains in search of an alternative to the Barlow Road. Harris continued acting as a guide until dying of cholera in 1849.” Fort Nisqually gift shop & museum, Tacoma WA Following are fabulous finds from a trip to Fort Nisqually mid August 2022. Another fascinating story, that of a black woman pioneer of southern Oregon: The photo on the left below is from a presentation at Fort Vancouver WA. Naturally, I thought it not appropriate to appropriate all his visuals. I don't have as many photos for the next phase of black history in the Pacific Northwest, but the following links show and tell something about the black experience in the western US during the 1800s. “I am also entitled to be recognized: The Life and Journey of Moses Williams” Lecture at Fort Vancouver WA, Feb 29, 2020; see
Oregon State Historical Society, 1200 SW Park Ave, Portland, OR 97205, across from the Portland Art Museum "The Remarkable Story of George Washington Bush, The Free Black Man Who Pioneered the Pacific Northwest” by Kaleena Fraga "5 Stops on Your Oregon Coast Black History Road Trip” by Zachary Stocks of Oregon Black Pioneers "Inequity: A Summary of Discrimination in Oregon and the South Coast” Coos History Museum 1st Tues Talk—July 15, 2020 . . . a panel discussion. “Black Americans and Oregon” by Taylor Stewart starts at about 26 min Clark County Historical Museum, 1511 Main St, Vancouver, WA 98660 April of 2022 we finally made it to the Clark County Historical Museum. I was extremely gratified to find along the front sidewalk a colorful and illustrated timeline of Black History for the county, which made it at the same time more local and personal, and was perhaps to some extent a mirror of the wider story of Blacks in America. Photos follow. After having donated most of my children's books to a good cause, I haven't resisted starting to collect more. I love kids' books. Through books we can travel along others' life journeys, their lives enrich our own, and through them our aspirations can take wings. Many good movies have been made about black people's experiences and about black heroes. I noticed some interesting titles at the public library, too, as I was pulling things together for my Learning Lab website delayed in its progress by this Travels site, but eventually they will come together. US Stamps over the years celebrating Black contributions to our nation I wanted to learn more about and experience a Kwanzaa celebration. In 2019 I found that there's an annual Kwanzaa celebration at the Multnomah County Library--North Portland on Killingsworth and Commercial Ave, so I betook myself to participate. Not all blacks celebrate Kwanzaa, of course, but I think it speaks to the basic principles and values of the black community. Below are some photos from that. Lots of specialty restaurants and food carts are in the area--some African or Caribbean. The Cascade campus of Portland Community College is across the street, which seems to focus a great deal on black history in the US. Portland Art Museum--1219 SW Park Ave, Portland, OR 97205 We were so crushed for time that we didn't get to see everything Feb 2022, but hopefully there will be another chance with more time. Youth 17 and under are free. I would figure a half day. Below are some of the works by black artists that were on display when we were there. Following are links to more black artists I didn't get to see in person. Oregon Historical Society Museum--1200 SW Park Ave, Portland, OR 97205 Across the way from the Portland Art Museum is the Oregon Historical Society, including a museum. You can pay for street parking or nearby pay-to-park lots. Their permanent collection is on the third floor. You can also find online resources at their website: A search for “black history” on their website produced 1124 items, perhaps some more useful than others. You can also search "blacks in Oregon".
One incident that caught my attention from Portland's history is the Vanport Flood of 1948. Following are some of many links: “Vanport Flood: Oregon’s Second Largest City that Vanished in a Day” by Tyler Willford, includes a 1 hr video Article “The Vanport Flood” by Michael McGregor (related articles & pics at bottom) Article with photos Article with photo “Vanport Flood begins on Columbia River on May 30, 1948” by Jennifer Ott OMSI Space Science Hall, taken 1 Sept 2022--Portland OR With our world's interconnected communications & media, the Pacific Northwest shares in the wider US experience. Washington History Museum, 1911 Pacific Ave, Tacoma WA I visited the Washington History Museum the end of May 2022, and happened on the exhibit called "The Negro Motorist Greenbook", that ran from Mar 19-June 12 that year. Before I got to that exhibit I saw some pertinent displays in the permanent exhibit "Washington: My Home". Later, as I was exploring the parks along Ruston Way, I saw an interpretive sign in Judge Jack Tanner Park that seemed befitting. More links about blacks in the Pacific Northwest A Timeline of Black History in the Pacific Northwest Pacific Northwest History: African Americans; Tacoma Community College Idaho Black History Museum Boise ID Black History of the Northwest—KUOW/NPR Came across this African-American museum in Seattle online. Here’s a half hour OPB production of African American history in OR Updates for 2023-2024 On my travels in 2023 I came across more interesting Black history of the PNW in Olympia WA Howard Point Marker—601 East Bay Drive Northeast; East Bay Dr & Glass Ave, Olympia WA Named for Rebecca & Alexander Howard, a black couple that settled in Olympia in the 1850s. Though there's a paved walk around the East Bay, and not a good place to park on the east side, I took my shot from the road despite the perils. George and Isabella Bush Homestead Historic Site--1400 85th Ave SE, Olympia, WA 98501 On the way back to my hotel in Olympia from Tenino WA (for Oregon Trail Days there), I was too tired to get out, unfortunately, so my photos have something to be desired. The structure needs some TLC. I missed the rather inconspicuous Bush family marker when I was on the Washington State Capitol campus. While the following are not just about Blacks who lived in the Pacific Northwest, they are a part of the heritage of all Americans. Different reading levels and interests can make reading and learning a family affair, as everyone can share. Timelines From Black History--Leaders, Legends, Legacies. DK. 96pp, 37 timelines of people & history, 22 brief bios, forward, glossary, index. Sample pages below.
Naturally, I could not include everyone of merit here, but I hope that this post has given a fair range of the experiences and persons of Black Americans.
View of Seattle from Ursula Judkins Viewpoint, Magnolia (north of Seattle). About a mile south of Seattle on I-5 is an exceptional view of the city as you come north, but I couldn't take photos during drive time, of course. Those who have more time to explore could find other photogenic views, no doubt!
Seattle Aquarium A great place to go, and on their site they give parking info: park at PIKE PLACE MARKET PARKING GARAGE at 1531 Western Ave, Seattle, WA 98101 and get 3 hours free with a voucher from Seattle Aquarium (such a wonderful benefit!). It's not that easy to recognize the parking address, nor the name of it. The sign says in unobtrusive lettering "Public Market Center Parking". The signed price is not that expensive, considering the usual price of parking in downtown Seattle. Any extra time spent can be paid by credit card upon leaving. The entrance is next to a sign "Elevator to Waterfront", and south of the overhead pedestrian bridge across Western Ave. Elevators go up to Pike Place Market, and down to Alaskan Way where the Aquarium is. Alaskan Way/the Waterfront A favorite Seattle activity is to walk/bike/roll the paved path along the waterfront as far as you can toward Pier 91, where the cruise ships dock. (via Washington Waterfront Trail & Elliott Bay Trail—it’s about 4 mi from Seattle Aquarium to Elliott Bay Marina see https://www.traillink.com/trail/elliott-bay-trail-(terminal-91-bike-path)/ ). Don’t forget to figure time and energy required to return. If it’s a nice day, there are marvelous views of the Olympic Mountains on the peninsula across Puget Sound. Pier 62 Park near Seattle Aquarium is a deck/plaza on the waterfront with views & bistro tablesMyrtle Edwards Park, part of the paved waterfront trails, whose south end is not far from Pacific Science Ctr Olympic Sculpture Park, about a mile north of Seattle Art Museum, with which it is affiliated. It's free, and has buildings and parking garage. The Broad St side is a steep hill. Pacific Science Ctr is not far by car, just up the hill from Olympic Sculpture Park. It was mostly closed, but its website has virtual programs
Pike Place Market I was so grateful for the "Public Market Center Parking" garage on Western Ave, which afforded me affordable parking, with a voucher ticket, and though it can be confusing trying to navigate the various levels and elevators when bound to a wheelchair, it was a lot easier than without such helps. Several restaurants appealed to the palate, lots of fresh fish & seafood, as well as a variety of other options. Because it was still Chinese New Year, I wanted to eat Chinese at least once. But the restaurant I saw was down a steep incline, and it was not easy to find my way to the elevators to the lower level and back again. I had to ask for directions a lot, and not everyone knew the answers. Some notable places I found downtown Pioneer Square Park--100 Yesler Way (1st Ave & Yesler) . . . more of a triangle than a square Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park is actually a museum building; free--319 2nd Ave S. (2nd & Jackson) Occidental Square is beautiful except for resident tenters--117 S Washington St. (between Main & Washington)
I stayed at Courtyard by Marriott--612 2nd Ave--at the corner of 2nd & Cherry (Cherry is a steep uphill, and both 2nd & Cherry are one-way). Just south of Cherry on 2nd is the loading/valet parking zone in what might appear to be a lane of traffic. There's a two-way bike lane on the curb side. Because my van ramp would put me in traffic, the valets and hotel security officer kept a watch so that I wouldn't get run over exiting or entering my accessible van. Valet parking was $45/night, but parking yourself was $35. Because I felt insecure about finding and being able to manage wheeling the streets, I gritted my teeth and was glad enough for the valets, who were very helpful. Woodland Park Zoo Beside the Zoo, Woodland Park has various other sports & recreational opportunities. See links below. I was happy to find that the zoo is mostly flat, though I was glad enough to have a motor, and there are some places where a person in a wheelchair needs that extra power. Figure at least a half day to enjoy this great place.
While on the north end, some other interesting places to go are
Chinatown Part of my plan was to check out Seattle's Chinatown during the 2-weeks Chinese New Year. But I used up my wheelchair battery at the zoo and hadn't learned how to recharge it from my van yet, so I was disappointed not to be able to get out in Chinatown. That might have been providential, because being unfamiliar with the geography, I could cover more ground and waste less time & energy by exploring by car for my first time. Chinatown/International District--Gate is at 5th Ave & King St (King St is interrupted by Union Station et al) Hing Hay Park—423 Maynard Ave S (King St between 6th Ave & Maynard) Wing Luke Museum of the Asian Pacific American Experience—719 S King St https://www.wingluke.org/ Kobe Terrace Park & Danny Woo Community Garden—650 S Main St (between Main & Washington) Donnie Chin International Children’s Park—700 S Lane St: picnic and unique playground--I didn't get to see. Yesler Terrace Park—917 Yesler Way, and S Washington St off Yesler, east of I-5 I happened onto this interesting park as I was wandering about by car. From the website: it offers views of the mountains and the bay; picnic, playground, spray park, plaza, basketball, soccer. Found this interesting site while looking up links for parks Museum of Flight, Boeing Field "The Museum of Flight is the largest independent, non-profit air and space museum in the world!" Obviously I had a hard time narrowing down from the over 200 photos I took. SeaMar Museum of Chicano/Latino Culture Wish List for the future:
Frye Art Museum https://www.fryemuseum.org/ Argosy Cruises https://www.argosycruises.com/ WA state ferry to Bainbridge or another island https://wsdot.wa.gov/travel/washington-state-ferries Victoria or San Juan Clipper https://www.clippervacations.com/ U of Washington, Burke Museum of Natural History https://www.burkemuseum.org/ Washington Park Arboretum https://botanicgardens.uw.edu/washington-park-arboretum/ Seattle Japanese Garden (temp closed) https://www.seattlejapanesegarden.org/ Interlaken Park https://www.seattle.gov/parks/find/parks/interlaken-park Seattle Asian Art Museum https://www.seattleartmuseum.org/visit/asian-art-museum MOHAI Museum of History and Industry https://mohai.org/ The Center for Wooden Boats (southern tip of Lake Union) https://www.cwb.org/ Discovery Park & West Point Lighthouse
Alki Point Lighthouse https://lighthousefriends.com/light.asp?ID=112 Hamilton Viewpoint Park https://www.seattle.gov/parks/find/parks/hamilton-viewpoint-park Lincoln Park https://www.seattle.gov/parks/find/parks/lincoln-park Essential Seattle Museums Children’s Film Festival . . . at home or in person Beyond Downtown, in the Greater Portland experience perhaps the top places to see are in Washington Park: the Zoo, the Rose Garden, the Japanese Garden, the Forestry Center, the Arboretum, trails, memorials, picnic places, archery range, tennis courts. I'll begin this post there, then traveling roughly west to east in a topical sort of way; pictured below are a number of other places to explore. Additionally, see my other posts (I see I use a lot more photos nowadays!):
Oregon Zoo-- https://www.oregonzoo.org/ Oregon Zoo has handicapped hardship hills--call ahead about renting a scooter or stroller. More of Washington Park--free to drive, not free to park; many hike or bike around the park. Be warned: it's hilly, you'll need a motor or a strong helper, lots of trails inaccessible/too steep.
Not too far from Washington Park are: Pittock Mansion Zupan's Market, Elephants Delicatessen, Phil's Meat Market and Bento Bar, lots of restaurants... Council Crest Mt Tabor Pittock Mansion https://pittockmansion.org/visit/ Accessible within limits. I am so glad we went at Christmas time! Be sure to access their Virtual Tour and Exhibits on their website. Zupan's Market, Elephants Delicatessen, Phil's Meat Market & Bento Bar, and a few of the many restaurants near Washington Park . . . not for the lightweight pocketbook.
Council Crest https://www.portland.gov/parks/council-crest-park Best mountain views appear when distant skies are clear. Parking is at a premium. Hiking is not wheelchair friendly other than right at the top. Mt Tabor-- https://www.portland.gov/parks/mt-tabor-park check for events, soapbox derby http://www.soapboxracer.com/ Downtown Portland--A wider Circle I took the MAX Red Line (Portland Transit) to (close to) Powell's City of Books December of 2021, and made a circuit of the area. Although most of the way was reasonably flat (but not all), I was very glad to have my new lightweight folding electric wheelchair, as I covered a considerable distance. Alert: some of the sidewalk ramps to the street are steep and can have mud/water at bottom. See also:
Morrison & 6th to 10th, 10th & 11th Streets from Taylor to Burnside (Past Pioneer Courthouse Square, left to the Library on 10th, back up 10th & 11th toward Powell's Books)
Powell's City of Books--between 10th & 11th, Burnside and Couch Burnside & 10th to Broadway, with a bit of a detour to Couch St (neighborhood of Jewish museum) to see the North Park Blocks, and a nice view of US Bancorp tower.
Broadway, 6th, & 5th snaking around city streets . . . to see such classic architecture and Portland landmarks as the US National Bank building, the historic old Wells Fargo building, US Bancorp Tower, Hotel Lucia & Hotel Vintage, Bidwell Marriott Hotel, the Royal Sonesta hotel, the mural of Portland in the TJMaxx store (slated to be closed), the Oregon Trail building . . . 5th Ave Food Carts at 5th & Stark (aka Harvey Milk): Small Pharoah's Egyptian & NY/Halal Kosher, Lord of the Wings, Maws Babylon Cuisine (gyros, shawarma, etc), Titos Burritos (another), Khoh Khun Thai Food, Ali Baba Iraqi Cuisine (Halal, gyros, smoothies, chicken nuggets, burgers, etc), Ocean Aloha Hawaiian, Mr. Taco, La Jarochita Mexican, Korean Twist (Korean BBQ, taco burritos, rice bowls), Gyro Place Egptian Food (gyros, burgers, philly cheese sandwiches, hot dogs, chicken burgers) Portland City Grill on the 30th floor of US Bancorp Tower, 111 SW 5th Ave, Portland, OR 97204 What a view! Great food, popular & pricey: get reservations. Inquire about their free 2.5 hour parking.
Tom McCall Waterfront Park--along the Willamette River; of 147 photos, I had to narrow the choices considerably. More info and photos (including Saturday Market) at
On the east side of the Willamette River are Portland International Raceway, the Rose Quarter, with the Moda Center (sports arena) and the Veterans Memorial Coliseum (event venue) Oregon Convention Center, is in the same neighborhood as the Rose Quarter (photos below) OMSI--Oregon Museum of Science & Industry (photos below) Two of the most well known Portland Neighborhoods you'll hear of are the Pearl District and Hollywood
Sunshine Division Winter Wonderland, Portland International Raceway--Dec 2022 One of the sites to see the Christmas Lights in Portland is also a charity to benefit the less fortunate. We went on a night and time that there wasn't terrible traffic, so we could go slow and take photos. Beside the price of the ticket (one price for the car full), we could donate non-perishable items at the entrance booth. It's not easy to get clear photos of lights in the night for an rank amateur, but hope these give some idea of the wondrous Winter Wonderland. OMSI-- https://omsi.edu/ So fascinating! So much to see! Hands-on activities for kids as well. OMSI update--1 Sept 2022 visit, including da Vinci exhibit ... more areas open with reduced COVID restrictions Things change over time at OMSI, even in the permanent exhibits. It's worth going occasionally, and having a membership if you have children, so you can go again and again without making each visit too long. Not cheap, though. https://omsi.edu/visitor-info Oregon Convention Center-- https://www.oregoncc.org/en My travel buddy and I went to the Portland Auto Show in both 2019 and 2020, at the Convention Center. There was a variety of food offered, but I think it was all the same company and mostly mediocre. The end of Jan 2022 I had the chance to go to "Beyond Van Gogh Portland" at the Oregon Convention Center. At the beginning of the exhibit(s) was a series of Van Gogh works with the story of his life, often with his own words quoted from letters. In the main room a succession of works of art (with some quotes) were projected on the walls, around the room, sometimes even the floor . . . different from one or two walls to another, and smaller walls erected in the middle of the room--projected art sometimes still, sometimes moving (literally and figuratively). The Grotto-- https://thegrotto.org/ The Grotto is a beautiful garden, sanctuary, a place to wander, ponder, even worship. It's especially beautiful at Christmas, both sights and sounds. During their Christmas lights festival the upper garden and some other parts are closed. My electric wheelchair handled the hills, but a person in a manual chair should have a husky friend. Universities
Need to entertain kids? North Clackamas Park/swim https://ncprd.com/aquatic-park Oaks Park https://www.oakspark.com/ Two rides were handicapped accessible: the train & carousel. They do have educational programs and picnic facilities that are accessible. BYO picnic, or buy food there. Lots of choices. Bridges across the Willamette River, north to south
Rest Stop at Willamette Falls, off I-205 near Oregon City OR--eastbound only--worth taking a look, taking a stretch.
Crossing the train tracks to and from the Museum can be a challenge for wheelchairs. To the right of this photo is a blocked street that has some less deeply rutted rails. At one point the staffer covered the "canyons" with heavy cardboard, which worked. It might not be a bad idea to come prepared with a board or two if someone in the party is using a wheelchair. It was a rainy day of December (12-4-21) we drove up to Snoqualmie WA for the Yuletide Express train ride to Snoqualmie Falls. I had dreamed about this little excursion for a couple years. Wisely I called ahead to check on accessibility, because it’s an historic train built in the days before ADA. They said they now have a lift to get me on the train, but since it’s an old train, they couldn’t accommodate any wheelchair wider than 24”. More about that below. We left at 9:30am for the 1:30pm train ride, to leave leeway for traffic and weather delays. Our cloud navigator took us via Hwy 18, from I-5, and that’s a pretty way to go. Part of the way we saw skiffs of snow. We arrived in Snoqualmie at 12:30pm, which gave us time to refill the gas tank before getting to the Depot a half hour ahead of the train departure, as advised. The Depot (Northwest Railway Museum) I loved the old restored Depot. The gift shop is full of wonders, especially if you have a young train enthusiast, or someone interested in the historic. The Yuletide Express train ride to Snoqualmie Falls The lift to get me up to the train was more confidence-building than certain transit options I have experienced. It’s a bit unnerving to be several feet above ground when you are on wheels. But their lift had nice sides to prevent rolling over the edge. They had to have me enter through the box car, but the doorway from there into the passenger car did not accommodate my 24” wide wheelchair, as the narrowest part of the doorway was only 23”. With the help of my companion, I was able to get to the nearest seat, but I couldn’t see much of anything from there. I did have time to note that the train needs plenty of TLC (and funds) to restore it to what I had imagined it would be. In my mind I had pictured the train ride going up into the mountains to see the falls. But it’s a short, flat ride. It’s best to get a seat on the right side of the train to be able to see the falls. On the way the train passes the Snoqualmie Falls Hydroelectric Museum (accessed by car via SE 69th Place). I’m curious now about the Santa Limited from nearby North Bend, which is $10 more per person, but a much longer ride. I think it is pulled by the steam locomotive. Below are sites about the river, the dam barely upstream from the Falls, and the power plant.
Snoqualmie Falls Park Since we couldn’t get much of a view of the Falls from the train ride, I was all the more interested in trying to see the falls by driving there. It’s close. But again, the weather wasn’t encouraging to get out and try the trails. What river we had seen wasn’t sparkling clear that time of year, so that also didn’t invite getting out to wander about. I was happy to see that ADA parking is free there. Salish Lodge Right next to Snoqualmie Falls Park is the appealing, apparently popular Salish Lodge. Downtown Snoqualmie Snoqualmie’s downtown is a cute, quaint place to explore, though the December weather wasn’t very inviting for a stroll or a roll. Right next to the Northwest Railway Museum is the Railroad Community Park with picnic tables and the Snoqualmie Centennial Log. Restaurants and shops are just across the street. Dinners from Herfy’s Burgers
As we drove into Snoqualmie, we were attracted by the red Milk Barn building, and what I misread as Hefty Burgers. It’s really Herfy’s Burgers. Although there are plenty of interesting restaurants in Snoqualmie, we decided to get our dinner at Herfy’s. My companion was hungry and got the triple burger, and it was hefty indeed. And juicy—be prepared for that. I ordered the salmon burger, and liked that, as well as some extra meals to try later. See photos below. Hanukkah in 2021 began Sunday Nov 28, and I decided it was an appropriate time to visit the Jewish museum and the Holocaust Memorial in Portland OR. For us non-Jews, below are some interesting links: "Hanukkah - Chanukah 2021 - Menorah, Dreidels, Latkes, Recipes, Games and more" "How to Light the Menorah - Light Up Your Environment! - Chanukah - Hanukkah" After about two and a half min the Rabbi focuses on Hanukkah in the following link: I attended the first ever lighting of the Menorah in Gresham OR, the first night of Chanukah in 2021, the year of the opening of Chabad Jewish Center of Gresham / East County. The event was at the Gresham Center for the Arts, a nice plaza on 2nd St between NE Kelly Ave and NE Hood Ave where they have a Farmers Market, restrooms, and a splash pad in summer, a drop box for letters to Santa during the season. I went early so I wouldn't have to try to find the place and van-accessible parking in the dark. I got the perfect easy parallel parking on the curb. After all week fretting that it would be a cold, dark, rainy night, the weather turned out nice, though breezy enough that the huge inflatable dreidel kept blowing over.
The Rabbi and the City Councilwoman both gave touching/inspiring messages for the evening. My notes (taken on scraps in the dark) are imperfect, so I beg pardon for that. The Rabbi spoke of how physical symbols remind us of spiritual things like wisdom, friendship, love. We must “use” those spiritual aspects of life or lose them. Hanukkah flames are lights that shine in the darkness, reveal evils—the erosion of time-honored values—give light to those who walk in darkness, and benefit us all. The Councilwoman spoke of the inspiration of Hanukkah celebrating the victory of Right over Might. We must have courage to stand against the tyranny of the powerful. She spoke of the appropriateness in the proximity of Thanksgiving and Hanukkah, both celebrations of blessings we’ve received. She praised the “Melting Pot” of America [where race, ancestry, differences of experience and heritage all season the medley, or add various strengths to the alloy]. We are all Americans. I wished I could have attended the 2021 Community Chanukah Celebration in Esther Short Park (605 Esther St.) in Vancouver USA, with “live music, hot cocoa, doughnuts and a giant ice menorah carving,” (which sounded cool) but I had attended their 2019 lighting, and wanted to spread my wings, so to speak. I couldn't be in both places at the same time. For 2019 “Festivals of Light”, including Hanukkah at Esther Short Park, scroll down at Portland OR, of course, celebrates Hanukkah every year, virtually in 2020, and both live and virtually in 2021. They say you can participate every night by Zoom. The weekend of Hanukkah I went to Portland Friday for the tour at the Oregon Jewish Museum and Center for Holocaust Education, and to visit the Oregon Holocaust Memorial. I stopped at Ben & Esther's Vegan Jewish Deli for lunch, hoping as well to get latkes and jelly donuts for my Hanukkah feast at home. I had tried to call ahead all week to make sure, but got no connection—as it turns out, they were closed 10 days for renovations. But I drove that way anyway, and it was the very day they reopened, unfortunately for me they didn’t have latkes or donuts yet (nor the next day). They have very limited street parking, but Safeway across the street has van-accessible parking, and the street crossing is not bad except for water pooled on a rainy day at bottom of the crossing ramp. There’s a handy bus stop as well. Ben & Esther's Vegan Jewish Deli--6912 NE Sandy Blvd., Portland OR Friday night after the Museum and Memorial I drove to Sweet Lorraine’s Latkes and More, to try to get latkes and jelly donuts, but it was dark, the limited street parking was full, I was tired, and again, I got only a recorded message when I tried to call. So when I had to pick up my main dinner from Zuppan’s Market on Saturday, I stopped at Sweet Lorraine’s (Killingsworth Station Food Carts) for lunch, where I was fortunate enough to get a good spot to park along the curb. The ramp up to the food carts is too steep for a manual wheelchair, but my new electric one was able to make it without tipping over. Lorraine suggested I order online and include a note about needing curbside delivery, park in the back momentarily and call, and they would bring the food out. She did have latkes, and a delicious kale salad, but no jelly donuts yet. Sweet Lorraine’s Latkes and More—1331 Killingsworth, Portland OR Saturday was rainy, but when I called earlier in the week to order my main Hanukkah meal from Zuppan’s Market (Burnside), the person taking my order said just to park and call, and they’d bring my food out to accommodate my handicap. There’s a longer story . . . I had hoped to pick up the food on the way home from the Holocaust Memorial in Washington Square (Portland OR) on Friday, because it is so close and I wouldn’t have to make an extra trip. But as it turned out, I had to make that extra trip, and once again, I only got a recording when I called. Again, I was so very fortunate that the handicapped parking was roomy for a van with a ramp, was right at the doorway, and was unoccupied. I went in and asked about my order, and eventually they got it together while I explored the store, décor and delights, and took photos. I had ordered a meal for 4, but the dishes were generous enough for at least 6. The ad for their Hanukkah meal was really very enticing, and the food was not disappointing. I could have ordered my latkes and jelly donuts from them as well, but I had wanted to try the other places. I wasn’t sorry I tried the others, but I was sorry I didn’t just include the latkes and donuts in my Zuppan’s order. It is an investment. Zuppan's Market-- 2340 W Burnside As always, the first time going somewhere there is considerable anxiety about finding appropriate parking. The online map did show that there was parking around the block from the Oregon Jewish Museum and Center for Holocaust Education. I worried about the time it would take to park and pay and get around to the entrance, that I might miss starting with the tour. But just across from the Museum is the historic old US Customs House (had been sold for shared office space), that had a van accessible handicapped parking spot of which I availed myself. Very handy. I made it to the tour just as they were starting, and they welcomed me in. After the tour I noted the pleasant park along several blocks between 8th and Park Avenues. Oregon Jewish Museum and Center for Holocaust Education--724 NW Davis St, Portland OR The historic United States Customhouse--220 NW 8th Ave, Portland OR Construction was still going on in the area of Washington Park where I wanted to go but wasn’t blocking my way. The online maps and physical street signs leave something to be desired, so I had to go the rounds to try to find the Oregon Holocaust Memorial. At last, I parked by the Coming of the White Man statue (which I take is meant to also be the Memorial parking), and got out for some pathfinding. I rolled the compacted gravel path by the statue, and followed the signs toward the memorial, which didn’t have good follow-up for the way to go. Both ways became steep inclines, and I didn’t have a companion in case I got into a fix. Nevertheless, I continued with trepidation. Partway down I tried to turn back, but my wheels spun, so I continued cautiously toward the bump barrier at the edge of the road, and on my way there caught a glimpse of the memorial down through the brush. I took some pics just in case that was the best I could do. Once I got on the road, I decided to try the crossing, and sure enough, that’s where the inadequately marked paved path to the memorial is. So, to distill all that--drive up and park by the "Coming of the White Man" statue (picnic tables near; costed me $2 for an hour at the pay post, which takes coins and card), stroll/roll back down the paved road to the pedestrian crossing to get to the Holocaust Memorial, as well as restrooms and park map. It’s not suitable for a solo person in a manual wheelchair, but my new electric chair was able to manage the steep incline back up to my van, even as I kind of held my breath.
Oregon Holocaust Memorial-- 240 SW Wright Ave, Washington Park, Portland OR United States Holocaust Memorial Museum--100 Raoul Wallenberg Place SW, Washington, DC 20024-2126 Main telephone: 202.488.0400 I traveled to Ontario OR for Free Museum Day, 9-18-2021. I wanted to explore the Japanese Gardens at the Four Rivers Cultural Center, to add to my Japanese-American Journeys post https://www.travelpacificnw.com/accessible-travel-blog/japanese-american-journeys Imagine my delight when I found out that the very same day was an hispanic fiesta celebrating Mexican Independence Day! Then when I got to Ontario, I found another bonus: the Tater Tot Festival was that weekend as well! You could start that Saturday at 9am with the Saturday Market at the historic Train Depot park. I wanted to be sure to get a parking space at the Cultural Center, so I found where it was the night before, then got there early Saturday morning, and actually had time to explore around town a little before parking at 10am when the Four Rivers Cultural Center and Museum opened. I loved that they were showcasing 5 cultures of the valley, beside a little natural history. First I went through the Museum (a few highlights below). See also https://4rcc.com/ Japanese Garden at Four Rivers Cultural Center and Museum, Ontario OR Gift Shop--Four Rivers Cultural Center and Museum, Ontario OR With an hour and a half to spare before the Fiesta started at 2pm, I decided to see if I could wheel downtown (perhaps about a half mile) for the Tater Tot Festival. The terrain is flat, major streets have sidewalks with ramps, people driving were very thoughtful and patient as I crossed the roads. See also https://tatertotfestivaloregon.com/ Fiesta for Mexican Independence Day--Four Rivers Cultural Center and Museum, Ontario OR I got back from the Tater Tot Festival downtown just in time for the fiesta at 2pm. By 3 or 4 pm it was rather windy and stormy, starting to sprinkle, and as I was worn out from treking around town, I went back to my room, thinking it was 5pm and all was over. I think I got the time zones mixed up, so I must have missed the dancing, which I would have enjoyed so. But as the weather deteriorated I was so very glad I didn't wait to go see the Tater Tot Festival, which I had intended to do after the fiesta. Ontario OR https://www.ontariooregon.org/index.html https://www.ontariooregon.org/events.html https://ontariochamber.com/visitor-information/ Ogawa's Sushi, Burgers, & Bowls, E Idaho Ave & 2nd St (west of I-84, exit 376) and Quality Inn, E Idaho Ave (east of I-84, exit 376), Ontario OR
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Wheelchair WomanI've been in a wheelchair for 30+ years. It poses some challenges for traveling. Maybe others can benefit from my experiences. Archives
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