Portland was founded in 1851 and was part of a 640 acre land claim owned by Asa Lovejoy and Francis Pettygrove. Lovejoy, a native of Massachusetts, wanted to name the settlement Boston. Pettygrove was from Maine and wanted to name the settlement Portland. The disagreement wa settled with a coin toss. Thanks to the far-sighted legislators in the early 1970's, private land owners can't restrict access to Oregon's beaches.
Beaches belong to the people.
The Portland area leads the country in light-rail development that boasted the best transit system in the country. Portland offers many spectator sports, from the NBA's Portland Trail Blazers to many other sports. Explore the history of your home, neighborhood, heirlooms, and family. Attend exciting children's fairs, family events, workshops and group tours. Join us on travels through the Old Oregon Country and discover the treasures of our heritage in our colorful exshibits, famous museum, and extensive research library.