Astoria Column Celebrates 100 Years of History

The Astoria Column, a landmark originally constructed in 1926, recently celebrated its 100th anniversary with a vibrant centennial event. This significant historical structure, a passion project of Ralph Budd, president of the Great Northern Railway, has become a global attraction. It not only commemorates Astoria's history on its inscriptions but also shares the stories of Chief Comcomly and York, an enslaved member of the Lewis and Clark expedition.

The centennial celebration on Saturday featured a community block party at Heritage Square, offering multicultural entertainment, food, and activities. This was followed by a formal Rededication Ceremony at the Column itself. The ceremony included performances by the North Coast Symphonic Band and the Mulan Drum Team, and a commemorative poem was presented by Oregon Poet Laureate Ellen Waterston.

Officials, including Mayor Sean Fitzpatrick and State Representative Cyrus Javadi, spoke at the ceremony, emphasizing pride in the column's century-long existence and its significance for future generations. Friends of the Astoria Column leaders also shared insights into the monument's restoration efforts, initiated in 1995. Letters from state officials like Governor Tina Kotek were also read, commending the community's preservation efforts.