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Did you know Portland’s White Eagle Saloon & Rock ‘n’ Roll Hotel is on the city’s most haunted spots list1? Also, Portland is ranked 7th among the world’s most literary cities, between Stockholm and Washington, D.C2. As you explore Portland’s hidden history, you’ll find many unusual facts and secret events that shaped the city.
The exploding whale incident of 1970 and the coin toss that decided Portland’s name are just a few of the offbeat stories. These tales show Portland’s quirky and captivating local lore that’s often overlooked. By learning about these stories, you’ll appreciate Portland’s rich history more.
Get ready to be amazed by eight extraordinary tales from Portland’s forgotten past. These stories, not often found in textbooks, will take you on a journey through time. You’ll see the city’s most intriguing and surprising moments. Prepare to discover a side of Portland you never knew existed, as we explore the insane history that’s been hidden for too long.
Key Takeaways:
- Discover Portland’s hidden history through 8 captivating stories
- Learn about the exploding whale incident of 1970
- Uncover the tale behind the naming of Portland via a coin toss
- Explore the famous McMinnville UFO photos of 1950
- Gain insight into Oregon’s Uranium Rush during the Cold War era
The Exploding Whale Incident of 1970
The exploding whale in Florence, Oregon, is a bizarre event that’s hard to forget. In November 1970, a huge 8-ton sperm whale carcass landed on the Oregon Coast near Florence. This created a big problem for local authorities3.
A Whale of a Problem
The dead whale, 45 feet long, quickly drew crowds. It also made the area smell bad. Officials from the Oregon Highway Division had to figure out how to get rid of it3.
Dynamite: The Misguided Solution
The highway department decided to use dynamite to break up the whale. They hoped to make it small enough for scavengers to eat, solving the problem3.
Raining Blubber and Smashed Cars
On November 12, 1970, the day of the explosion came. A crowd watched as engineers put dynamite under the whale. The blast sent blubber flying, hitting people and smashing cars in a parking lot3.
The incident became famous, with videos of it shared everywhere. It’s a lesson in the dangers of trying new, untested solutions. It’s also a fun part of Oregon’s history3.
Oregon’s Moon Trees: A Lunar Legacy
In Oregon, a special piece of lunar history is hidden. In 1971, astronaut Stuart Roosa took a seed capsule to the moon on Apollo 144. This capsule carried hundreds of tree seeds, leading to Oregon’s “moon trees.”
After returning to Earth, the seeds were planted by the U.S. Forest Service. Amazingly, the trees grew as strong as those from Earth5. Six of these “moon trees” now call Oregon home.
A Living Legacy Across the Globe
The other moon trees were given to places worldwide. They symbolize the Apollo missions’ achievements. Today, they stand in parks, gardens, and even at the White House, showing humanity’s reach.
Oregon’s moon trees are a global treasure. They connect our planet to space, inspiring dreams of the stars.
When in Oregon, look for these remarkable trees. Standing under their branches, think of their moon-to-Earth journey. Marvel at Stuart Roosa’s seed capsule legacy in the Beaver State.
The Coin Toss That Named Portland
Imagine if Oregon’s biggest city was named Boston instead of Portland. It’s a strange thought, but it’s true. The city’s name was decided by a simple coin toss6. This small choice has greatly shaped Portland’s identity and history.
Two businessmen, Asa Lovejoy from Boston, Massachusetts, and Francis Pettygrove from Portland, Maine, owned the land. They couldn’t agree on a name, so they flipped a coin. Pettygrove won, and the city was named after his hometown, Portland, Maine6.
It’s interesting to think about how different things might be if the coin had landed the other way. Would we be talking about Boston, Oregon instead of Portland? Would the city have a different character and reputation?
Despite the coin toss, Portland has become a unique city. It’s the largest in Oregon, with over 650,000 people6. It’s known for its vibrant culture, stunning natural beauty, and great food and drink. You can visit the International Rose Test Garden, hike in the Columbia River Gorge, or try the city’s famous craft beers and coffees.
So, next time you’re in downtown Portland, think about that coin toss. It shows how small decisions can change history and create something special. Portland may not be named Boston, but it’s a beloved city with a unique identity.
The McMinnville UFO Photos of 1950
In the spring of 1950, a series of photographs taken in McMinnville, Oregon, sparked a worldwide sensation. These images, captured by local farmers Paul and Evelyn Trent, showed a flying saucer in the sky above their property7.
The McMinnville UFO photos quickly became famous, appearing in newspapers and magazines worldwide. Many thought they were real proof of aliens visiting Earth. But others doubted their authenticity, suggesting they might be fakes8.
Controversy and FBI Investigation
The controversy over the McMinnville UFO sightings was so intense that the FBI even investigated. Despite their efforts, they couldn’t prove or disprove the photos’ authenticity. Some researchers have since reexamined the photos, analyzing the original negatives and interviewing witnesses. They aimed to shed new light on the mystery8.
Even though the debate over the McMinnville UFO photos continues, their impact is huge. They are among the most famous UFO sightings in history. They still fascinate researchers and UFO enthusiasts today.
Oregon’s Uranium Rush During the Cold War
During the Cold War, Oregon saw a “Uranium Rush” as many came to southeast Oregon. They hoped to find uranium and get rich. This time in Oregon’s history shows the era’s tensions and economic needs.
The rush in Oregon was part of a bigger trend in the U.S. States like Wyoming, New Mexico, and Colorado had the most uranium. From 1949 to 2019, the U.S. made 979.9 million pounds of uranium oxide. The most was made in 1980, at 43.7 million pounds9.
Prospectors in southeast Oregon were attracted by the chance to make money from uranium. The price of uranium went up from $7.92 per pound in 2001 to $39.48 in 20069. The mining was driven by the need for nuclear weapons and energy, and the hope of making money.
Even though there was a Uranium Rush, Oregon’s part in uranium production was small. In 2023, the U.S. made 224,331 pounds of uranium, just 15% of what was made in 20189. Yet, the Uranium Rush in southeast Oregon is an interesting and often forgotten part of Oregon’s history during the Cold War.
Conclusion
Portland’s forgotten past is filled with unique stories and historical events. These tales give us a glimpse into the city’s rich heritage. From the exploding whale in 1970 to Moon Trees grown from lunar seeds, these stories are both quirky and remarkable.
The city’s name was decided by a coin toss, and there are UFO photos that sparked controversy. These add to Oregon’s colorful past10.
Exploring these stories helps us appreciate Portland’s development. We learn about resilience, innovation, and the value of preserving our heritage. The book “Portland’s Forgotten Past” is a great resource for these stories. It has positive reviews for its clarity and cultural relevance10. The book also serves as a starting point for further exploration of Portland’s history. One way to delve deeper into the city’s forgotten past is by taking the hidden murals tour, which showcases important moments and figures from Portland’s history that are often overlooked. By engaging with these stories, we can gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for the city we call home.
As you explore Portland’s hidden history, remember every city has its own stories. Whether you live here or are just visiting, learning about Portland’s past is enriching. So, keep an open mind, ask questions, and let these stories inspire you to delve deeper into the fascinating world of local history. Take a walk through the city’s old neighborhoods, visit local museums, and explore hidden landmarks to uncover the rich tapestry of Portland’s past. From its early days as a trading post to its transformation into a thriving metropolis, there are countless stories waiting to be discovered. So, don’t be afraid to stray off the beaten path and explore the lesser-known corners of this vibrant city.