The Astoria Column was built in 1926 by the Great Northern Railroad, and Vincent Astor, great grandson of the the founder of Astoria, John Jacob Astor. Located high on the hill above Astoria, the panoramic view of the surrounding area is about as good as it gets. When we decided to drive back across the Columbia River yesterday, this was our first stop, and Nancy's first visit to Astoria's most prominent view point.
It wasn't the clearest of days, but at least we had a pretty good view of the river, the bridge, and we could almost see to the mouth of the Columbia, where the infamous river bar remains a hazard to ship navigation. Nancy & I decided to climb the 166 steps up the spiral staircase to the top of the tower, while Patty exercised the smart choice of staying put on Terra Firma. When you get to the top, there isn't much room outside on the platform, and the see through railing wasn't substantial enough to keep my acrophobia from kicking into high gear. While Nancy and a few other folks were walking around the top, I had my back firmly planted against the tower just outside the door. A couple of pictures, and it was "see ya", as I started the trek back down the stairs.
Our next stop was the Oregon Film Museum, located in the old county jail building. This was a first time visit to this attraction, which is kind of two museums in one. The two most famous movies that were filmed in Astoria are Kindergarten Cop, and Goonies. We also learned that one of the most famous actors of all time - Clark Gable started his acting career here in Astoria in 1926.
On the drive back to Long Beach, we stopped at Fort Columbia, located on the north side of the river, west of the Astoria-Megler Bridge. This military facility was built in the late 1800's, as one of three forts that guarded the mouth of the Columbia River with large cannons. The other two are Fort Canby on the same side of the river, and Fort Stevens on the south side of the river. None of the big guns were ever fired at enemy ships, but if that need had ever arisen, it looks like they had a pretty good crossfire set up with the 3 locations.
We had a late lunch at the Lost Roo in Long Beach, and an even later dinner of my BBQ'd chicken back at the motor home. Our two weeks here at Long Beach are starting to wind down, as we'll be leaving for the Seaside Thousand Trails in 4 days. From there, we'll be working our way south along the Pacific Coast into CA, then east into Nevada, and south from there towards home in Tucson. It's been a great trip, but Patty and I are starting to look forward to getting back to the ranch, and seeing our family.
Thanks for the memories. Pictures and Post were great. I use to live in Astoria. Happy and safe travels as you slowly head home. Love TT Seaside and the pickleball courts and indoor swimming pool there.
ReplyDeleteWe did an audio tour from the Astoria's Visitor Center (David downloaded the info and used it in the truck)and passed the Film Museum and drove up to the Astoria Column. Because we were there twice before and a $2 charge for parking we drove in and out and continued our audio. We did stop and toured the Flavel House Museum just above the Film Museum. Actually starting 9/6 Seaside is having their 'Wheels N' Waves show at the Seaside Civic & Convention Center until 2 pm on Sunday, 9/8. Lynn Cross
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