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NPS PHOTO
Contact: Heidi Pierson, Museum Specialist, (503) 656-5151 The McLoughlin House unit of Fort Vancouver National Historic Site will re-open to the public on Friday, February 14, after its annual winter closure. This re-opening date is particularly symbolic, as it coincides with the 155th anniversary of Oregon's statehood. The site will also be open on Saturday, February 15. Staff and docents will be on hand to answer questions and give guided tours of the McLoughlin House, and on the 15th, two local scouting groups will conduct a special flag raising ceremony. The youngsters will raise an historical 33-star US flag, which is part of the McLoughlin Museum Association's Rose Farm/Holmes House collection. The 33rd star was added to the official US flag on July 4th, 1859, to represent Oregon. Presidents James Buchanan (1857-1861) and Abraham Lincoln (1861-1865) both served under the 33-star flag before it was replaced in 1861 with a 34-star flag after the addition of Kansas to the Union. Victorian Cultural Demonstrations, one of the site's most popular programs, will resume in March. These wonderful hands-on crafts and culture demonstrations will take place on the second Saturday of the month, from March through November. "Craft demonstrations are a great way to learn something new," said Heidi Pierson, National Park Service Museum Specialist at the McLoughlin House, "We enjoy sharing these crafts with our visitors, and most of our projects are suitable for all ages and skill levels to enjoy!" Oregon author RC Marlen will be at the site on March 15th, from noon to 1:00 p.m. to talk about her book Grist: A Story of Life in the Oregon Country, part of a series of monthly talks on the third Saturdays of the month. What: Celebrate Oregon's birthday at the re-opening of the McLoughlin House in Oregon City! When: Friday, February 14th, and Saturday, February 15th. Hours: The Barclay House is open to the public Friday and Saturday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. The McLoughlin House is accessible by free, guided tours at 10:15 AM, 11:15 AM, 12:15 PM, 1:15 PM, 2:15 PM, and 3:15 PM. Tours begin at the Barclay House. Where: 713 Center Street, Oregon City, OR Cost: Free! Background: The McLoughlin House was added to the National Park System in 2003 as a unit of Fort Vancouver National Historic Site. The house is restored to honor the life and accomplishments of Dr. John McLoughlin, the "Father of Oregon." The graves of McLoughlin and his wife, Marguerite, are located next to the house, as is the home of Dr. Forbes Barclay, a Hudson's Bay Company associate, and his wife, Maria. |
Last updated: February 28, 2015