Who Was Robert Gray, and Why Does His Name Matter on the Oregon Coast? Q: Who was Robert Gray?A: Robert Gray was a bold American sea captain born in 1755 in Rhode Island. He became famous for being the first non-Indigenous person to sail up the Columbia River, claiming it for the United States […]
Who Was Robert Gray, and Why Does His Name Matter on the Oregon Coast? Read More »
Yes, the ship Tonquin did come to Astoria—and played a vital role in its founding! 📖 Key Facts: Ship Name: Tonquin Owned by: John Jacob Astor’s Pacific Fur Company Mission: To establish a fur trading post on the Pacific Coast—what would become Fort Astoria Arrival in Astoria: March 1811 Captain: Jonathan Thorn Notable Crew: A
⚓️ Did the Tonquin Come to Astoria? What Happened to It? Read More »
How Did a Treaty Signed in Belgium Shape the Future of Astoria, Oregon? Imagine this: It’s the early 1800s. The Pacific Northwest is a wild, rugged land of tall trees, rich rivers, and endless opportunity. In 1811, a bold group of American entrepreneurs established Astoria, a fur-trading outpost perched at the mouth of the Columbia
How Did a Treaty Signed in Belgium Shape the Future of Astoria, Oregon? Read More »
If you’ve ever driven along Astoria’s waterfront and wondered about the old pilings in the river or the long weathered buildings standing over the water, you’re not alone. One of the most frequent questions I get during my tours is: “How many canneries were in Astoria?” At the height of its fishing industry in the
What Happened to All the Canneries in Astoria, Oregon? Read More »
If you’re driving down Highway 101 between Cannon Beach and Arch Cape, you’ll pass a sign for Hug Point — and you might wonder, what’s so special about that little pullout by the ocean? Turns out, Hug Point is a hidden gem packed with history, natural beauty, and a touch of adventure. So why the
Curiosity of a Traveler: What is Hug Point known for on the North Oregon Coast? Read More »
If you’ve ever wondered why Finnish names are woven into the history of the North Coast—or spotted them along Astoria’s waterfront—here’s a story about courage, survival, and hope. 🌍 A Homeland Under Pressure Finland, then the Grand Duchy under Russian rule, faced increasing pressure in the late 1800s. As Russification policies took hold—suppressing Finnish language,
Why Did So Many Finns Leave Finland in the Late 1800s and Early 1900s? Read More »
Just under an hour’s drive from downtown Astoria, Oregon, nestled in a secluded forest glen, lies one of Clatsop County’s most scenic and storied natural wonders: Youngs River Falls. With its lush surroundings and Hollywood good looks, this 54-foot waterfall has captured the hearts of explorers, filmmakers, and adventurers alike. 📍 Location:Youngs River Falls is
🌲 Where is Youngs River Falls — and Why Do People Love It? Read More »
Exploring the Lifeline of the Pacific Northwest with Onward Adventures If you’ve ever stood along the edge of the Columbia River—whether it’s in Astoria under the iconic bridge or near the docks in Hammond—you’ve probably wondered: Just how long is this mighty river? The Columbia River stretches about 1,243 miles (2,000 kilometers), making it the
How long is the Columbia River? Read More »
Yes — and it’s a must-see for fans of the film! The iconic Goonies house sits on a quiet hill in Astoria, Oregon, where Mikey and the gang first discovered the treasure map that kicked off their epic adventure. And yes — you can still visit it today with courtesy and Goonie spirit! 📍 Where
🏠 Can You Still Visit the Goonies House in Astoria, Oregon? Read More »
If you’ve walked the beaches in Warrenton and noticed the sand seems darker than what you’ll find farther south in places like Cannon Beach or Pacific City — you’re not imagining it! The darker sand in Warrenton is due to a higher concentration of basalt and heavy mineral deposits. This area is geologically rich, shaped
🌊 Why is the Sand Darker in Warrenton, Oregon? Read More »
