[Congressional Record Volume 160, Number 121 (Wednesday, July 30, 2014)]
[Senate]
[Page S5130]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       PITTOCK MANSION CENTENNIAL

 Mr. WYDEN. Mr. President, I would like to honor the centennial 
of a unique historical landmark in my home State. The Pittock Mansion 
in Portland, OR, educates Oregonians and tourists from around the world 
about the city's history and the legacy of the family who once owned 
it.
  When Henry Pittock completed construction of the large 46-room house 
in the West Hills of Portland in 1914, there was nothing like it in the 
region--and arguably, there still isn't. Henry came to Oregon by 
covered wagon with little in his pocket but grew to become a respected 
local businessman and the owner of our State newspaper, the Oregonian. 
His wife Georgiana was a philanthropist who was known for serving the 
needs of the elderly, women and children, and for her famous rose 
garden. Georgiana often hosted garden parties where she would showcase 
her famous roses and is credited with kick-starting the first Portland 
Rose Society and the tradition of the Portland Rose Festival, which now 
draws thousands of people from around the world each summer.
  When Henry and Georgiana built their mansion, they hired Oregon 
craftsman and artisans and used northwest materials, helping their 
community and contributing to the bourgeoning city in a variety of 
ways. They lived a long, happy life together and had 6 children and 18 
grandchildren, including some who lived in the mansion up until it was 
put up for sale in 1958.
  Today, the mansion serves as a historical museum. The interior of the 
house and the surrounding property are publicly owned and preserved by 
dedicated staff and volunteers. Tourists, locals, and schoolchildren 
are often seen wandering through the home and along the paths around 
the large property learning about the historic significance of the 
mansion and of Portland. The house represents an era of growth that was 
occurring throughout the Pacific Northwest at the time of its 
construction.
  For its symbolism, history, and meaning, today we recognize the 
Pittock Mansion's Centennial Year. May it continue to serve as a place 
to learn and enjoy for many years to come.

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