Oregon Historical Society

"Oregon -- Land of Sunshine!" was the interesting title of a film John and I recently saw inside the Oregon Historical Society.  An appropriate amendment to the title would've been that Oregon is the land where sunshine is highly appreciated.  The film did correctly capture the idealistic promise of prosperity that many western settlers were seeking over a hundred years ago.  Oregon is now the frontier of new ventures (mainly tech start-ups) with a strong sense of individual pragmatism, but with communal awareness.  

The museum had many interesting artifacts, exhibitions, and displays that told the Oregon story.  From relations between indigenous natives and early settlers, to the Colombian Exposition, and even to Oregon's social nature in discussing difficult topics, such as assisted suicide.  There was also an interesting feature on the issue of homelessness in Oregon; it's causes, the people who are involved, and remarking on the complex reality of many social issues that still remain highly unaddressed by our country.  

Perhaps the most captivating quote John and I came across was one that embodies the mindset of any true Oregonian: 

"People who do come (to Oregon) must not be worried or frightened at trifles; they must put up with storm and cloud as well as calm and sunshine; wade through rivers, climb steep hills, often go hungry, keep cool and good natured always [sic], and possess courage and ingenuity equal to any emergency, and they will be able to endure unto the end."  -Elizabeth Wood, Oregon Trail, 1851