Additional information
by Judi Graeper (Author), Steven Graeper (Author)
Discover how a resting spot along the Barlow trail evolved into the flourishing town of Rhododendron in this collection of historic photographs.
In the mid-19th century, pioneers made their way west along the Oregon Trail to a perilous portion of the path down the Columbia River. Searching for a less dangerous route, Sam Barlow forged the Barlow Trail, and tolls were collected to help build and maintain that trail. Past the final tollgate, there was a wide spot along the trail where pioneers could rest before embarking on the last leg of their journey west into the Willamette Valley. This land eventually became known as Rhododendron, Oregon. In 1905, Henry Rowe, former Portland mayor, built an inn there, and in 1920, the US Postal Service established the Rhododendron Post Office, named for the beautiful native rhododendrons that blossomed in the area. Throughout the 20th century, the town of Rhododendron flourished. It grew to be a recreational vacation destination for nearby Portlanders, and businesses developed as summer homesites were established. Today, Rhododendron is home to over 1,000 permanent residents.
As third-generation native Oregonians, Steve and Judi Graeper often spend time at their cabin in Rhododendron. Built by the Steiners in 1932, it is one of the area's original summer cabins and has been in the Graeper family since 1942. The Graepers are members of the Rhododendron Community Planning Organization (CPO) and the Mount Hood Cultural Center and Museum. Many of the images in this book have been obtained from either the museum or from local residents through the CPO.
Author Biography
As third-generation native Oregonians, Steve and Judi Graeper often spend time at their cabin in Rhododendron. Built by the Steiners in 1932, it is one of the area's original summer cabins and has been in the Graeper family since 1942. The Graepers are members of the Rhododendron Community Planning Organization (CPO) and the Mount Hood Cultural Center and Museum. Many of the images in this book have been obtained from either the museum or from local residents through the CPO.
