News & Press

Think you’ve got what it takes to be the first “Oregon History Idol?” Then sign up to enter a brand new singing contest presented by the Oregon Historical Society and the Portland Trail Blazers. The individual who is crowned “Oregon History Idol” will receive the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to sing our state song, “Oregon, My Oregon,” at the Blazer game on Oregon’s birthday. The Blazers will be taking on the Washington Wizards on Tuesday, February 14 at 7 PM.

Interested contestants should come to the Oregon Historical Society on Sunday, February 12, where we will be hosting an afternoon of tryouts. Registration is from 1:30 – 2 PM, and auditions will begin at 2 PM.

Please click here to read the full press release.

In a formal meeting today, the Oregon Historical Society Board of Trustees voted to remove the “Interim” from Kerry Tymchuk’s title, appointing him Executive Director of the Oregon Historical Society.

“Kerry Tymchuk has achieved several notable goals since joining OHS as Interim Executive Director last April. His masterful facilitation has renewed public support for OHS and his ability to nurture relationships and spread enthusiasm for history is truly remarkable” says Board President Jerry Hudson. “We are delighted that he has chosen to accept the Executive Director position."

Please click here to read the full press release.

Click here to view the Society's recent press releases.

Senator Hatfield was a passionate student of history, and, after returning to Oregon in 1997 following his retirement from the Senate, he became a dedicated supporter of the Oregon Historical Society. His vision and leadership made possible the "Mark O. Hatfield Distinguished Historians Forum." Now in its 14th season, the Forum has allowed Oregonians to hear and meet many of the nation's leading biographers and historians. Until his health prevented it, Senator Hatfield could always be found in the front row of the Forums, and he always asked the first question during the question and answer session.

"In the 152 years since our statehood, perhaps no Oregonian impacted history more than Mark Hatfield. Throughout his remarkable public service career, Mark Hatfield earned a reputation for intelligence, integrity, courage, and character. His Washington, D.C. office was a training ground for countless Oregonians who, inspired by Senator Hatfield's example, returned to Oregon to make a positive difference for their community and our state. He was a very proud supporter of the Oregon Historical Society, and the Mark O. Hatfield Distinguished Historians Forum will live on as a fitting tribute to this true giant of Oregon history."

--Kerry Tymchuk

Interim Executive Director

A condolence book is available in the lobby of the Oregon Historical Society. You are invited to visit OHS and sign the condolence book or leave messages for Mrs. Hatfield. To give a gift in memory of Senator Hatfield click here.

Read more about Senator Hatfield's distinguished career on the Oregon History Project, the Oregonian and on Willamette University's website.