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Astoria, Oregon
Lewis and Clark first arrived in Astoria in 1805, ending their long
cross-country trip. Astoria though is aptly named for John Astor the first person
to establish a permanent settlement west of the Rockies.
Astoria is home to many picturesque things such as their many lovely Victorian
homes and marina. Yet, one of the most amazing is the incredibly narrow Astoria Bridge, which
crosses the mighty Columbia River close to where it meets the Pacific Ocean. This bridge also
divides Washington and Oregon. The town houses many antique galleries that can be especially
fun to poke through on a typical rainy day. There is the Columbia River Maritime Museum which
is situated right on the Columbia River next to the incoming and outgoing Coast Guard ships, for
Astoria is home to a Coast Guard Station. You may tour these ships daily.
The Astoria Column, a 125-foot column with spiraling murals depicting the history of
Astoria stands a top the highest hill in Astoria. It was built in 1926 and funded by the
Great Northern Railroad and John Jacob Astor, great grandson to John Astor in commemoration
of his family’s role in the business of the city. It isfairly easy climb, with a spiraling
staircase and names of donors on plaques on the wall as you ascend. Once reaching the top, you
have an amazing 360 degree view of the mouth of the Columbia River as it reaches the mighty Pacific
Ocean, the Astoria Bridge, the Cascade Mountains, and the quaint town
below. It is worth every step.
Any way you look at it, Astoria is a bevy of historical information, shopping
and fun. Check it out!
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