Pacific Northwest Exhibit

Looking for special local history outing for the family?  The Oregon State Library is opened a new exhibit called “The Early Exploration of the Pacific Northwest, 1778 – 1843.” Using books from the State Library’s Special Collections this exhibit highlights many early expeditions in the Pacific Northwest, starting with the 1778 Oregon Coast explorations by James Cook of England to the United States Exploring Expedition led by Charles Wilkes in 1843. The exhibit will display many other key materials from persons and places such as Robert Gray, George Vancouver, Lewis and Clark, and Astoria.

Oregon State Library’s Special Collections houses manuscripts, photographs, older Oregon documents, Oregon maps, and books and periodicals on numerous Oregon-related topics. Many items in the collection require special handling or protection because they are rare or fragile. Apart from Special Collections, the State Library has an extensive collection of materials on Oregon-related topics including public documents from Oregon government agencies. The Oregon Documents Depository Program ensures continuing access to public documents, as state agencies are required by statute to provide the State Library with copies of their public documents for distribution.

The exhibit is located in the 2nd floor lobby of the State Library, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. The Oregon State Library is located at 250 Winter St. NE, Salem, OR 97301-3950