Events Calendar

From our interactive museum exhibits to our Research Library to our premier meeting and event space, there's always something fun happening at the Oregon Historical Society. See below for upcoming events.

Unless otherwise noted, programs take place at the Oregon Historical Society building in downtown Portland (1200 SW Park Avenue) and are free of charge with museum admission. Click on links or call (503) 222-1741 for more information.

August - December 2009 Calendar of Events click here (PDF)

Through the end of the year, you have the special opportunity to give an Oregon Historical Society membership to a friend or family member for half the price!  Give the gift of an individual membership at the low cost of $30 OR for only ten dollars more, give a whole family a year long membership for $40!  Click here to order now.

For more ways to give green during the holidays, check out the Green Gift Guide for more special offers around Oregon.

November 21st, 2009

11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Join us this month for a railroad inspired family day.  Visitors will get to view a historic model railroad and visit with railroad historians!  Between 1:00 and 2:00 p.m., special guest Jeni Foster will be giving a musical performance and lecture called “Magic Carpet Made of Steel.”  Children will also have a chance to paint their own railroad car during craft time.  Two children are admitted free with one paid adult admission.

Northwest Portland in Words and Images

at the Guild's Lake Inn Restaurant,

3271 NW 29th Avenue, Portland, OR 97210

November 21, 2009 at 5 p.m.

You’re invited to join us as we revisit Northwest Portland history from the very same spot it took place.  Join Tanya March for a discussion of Guild’s Lake housing project during World War II and the Guild’s Lake Inn for a casual evening of home-style cooking and an exploration of industrial northwest Portland’s rich history.  View a selection historic photos of the neighborhood and celebrate the unveiling of a large scale historic panoramic photo of the area.  Soup and other fall fare will be provided by our hosts at the Guild’s Lake Inn.

Seating is limited.  Admission is free for Members, a $10 donation is requested from Non Members.  Please RSVP by Monday, November 16th at (503) 306-5214 or to communications@ohs.org.

December 1-31st

Through the month of December, members are welcome to use their OHS membership for free admission to the Portland Classical Chinese Gardens.  Click here for more information on other member benefits.

Sunday, December 6th, 2009

Noon – 5:00 p.m., Author signing until 4:00 p.m.

Mark your calendar for one of the most popular events of the year.  On Sunday, December 6th, the Society is proud to host Oregon authors with their latest works.  A full list of the authors attending will be posted soon on the website so keep checking back.  Don’t miss this chance to meet the authors, purchase their newest book, and have it signed for yourself or for the perfect holiday gift!  For a full list of authors attending click here

February - May 2010

at The First Congregational Church and the Oregon Historical Society

Ticketing Information Available Soon

From historical biographies to issues and events that have shaped our state, Oregon Experience is an exciting television series co-produced by OPB and the Oregon Historical Society. The series explores Oregon's rich past and helps all of us — from natives to newcomers — gain a better understanding of the historical, social and political fabric of our state.

Each half-hour show brings to life fascinating characters — both familiar and forgotten — who've played key roles in building our state into the unique place we call home.

Welcome to the first entirely on-line and e-mail Historian.  The new format helps OHS live within its reduced state allocation and allows us to give you more information at the reduced cost.  It is packed full of information about a wonderful line-up of fall exhibits and events.  Please take a moment to read through it and mark your calendar–there’s lots of excitement ahead!

To view the Fall Historian Newsletter click here (PDF 2MB)