There’s a ton of excellent information in this 1911 Oregonian article about the very early days Government Camp/Pompeii.
The area where Government Camp is located had been known by that name since 1849 when the Regiment of Mounted Riflemen, enroute from Fort Leavenworth Kansas to Fort Vancouver, attempted to cross over the early Barlow Trail late in the season, possibly November or even December, and were faced with severe winter weather. They abandoned 45 wagons that were loaded with supplies, before descending Laurel Hill and down into the Valley. Since then the area had been known as the government camp.
Oliver Yocum, one of the original homesteaders there, was petitioning the postal service for a post office there. He wanted to name the town Government Camp, but the post office had a rule that the name couldn’t be two words, which always seemed to be odd to me considering New York had a post office, but I digress… O. C. Yocum decided that, due to it’s position on the side of a volcano, he would name the town Pompeii. That didn’t last long before the post office adopted its proper name – Government Camp Oregon.
“The Sunday Oregonian – Sun, May 14, 1911
POMPEII ENJOYS BOOM – SETTLEMENT IN SHADOW OF MOUNT HOOD SHOWS LIFE
Sawmill, Hotel, Water Works, and Electric Lighting and Power Plant Being Built.
The sawmill erected at Pompeii, Government Camp, by O. C. Yocum four years ago collapsed on March 5, causing Mr. Yocum a loss of $3,000. However, it is now being rebuilt by Elijah Coalman, who recently bought the 120-acre tract and Mountain Hotel there.
Transfer of the machinery for the new sawmill was accomplished under remarkable difficulties. Mr. Coalman took possession of the property at Pompeii on March 9 and began erecting the new sawmill. The machinery was hauled by horses to within three miles of Pompeii on wagons. The last three miles of the trip were made on sleds drawn by man power over eight feet of snow. Despite the difficulties, the men, under the direction of Mr. Coalman, overcame the challenges, and the sawmill is now nearing completion. Mr. Coalman expects to start cutting lumber for the new hotel in about 10 days. He currently has about 75,000 feet of logs in the mill yard.
The Meldrum Flume Company has its piping for Pompeii on the ground, and by the middle of summer, the water system will be completed and operational. The surplus water from the plant will be used for power purposes and to operate an electric lighting plant.
Pompeii was founded and named by veteran mountain guide and pioneer, O. C. Yocum. It is the last and only place from which the ascent of Mount Hood can be made from the south side. There will be six hotels in Western Hood this year—one each at Pompeii, Rhododendron, Welch, Maulden, Brightwood, and Howard. Another hotel is under construction on Salmon River for the Mount Hood Hotel Company by Kern & Routledge.
The new Mountain House at Pompeii will contain 50 rooms; the Mount Hood Hotel Company will offer 40 rooms, and the other resorts have been improved and enlarged.”
Nestled in the picturesque surroundings of the Salmon River in Wemme, Oregon, the Arrah Wanna Lodge began its story in 1909 when George Routledge acquired 160 acres of timberland. This land, about a mile from the nearest automobile road, became the foundation for a mountain retreat that would endure decades of transformation.
The Birth of Arrah Wanna Hotel
In 1909, the Mount Hood Hotel Company, led by C. W. Kern, J. R. Routledge, and R. Woods, planned to construct a Swiss Chalet-style hotel. Kern had operated the Welches Hotel for five years prior to this. By 1910, construction had begun on an 80 x 90-foot, two-story building with 40 rooms and wide verandas. The hotel featured rough timber finishes, large stone fireplaces, and running water. The estimated construction cost was $20,000, with plans to open for the 1910 season.
Arrah Wanna Hotel 1914 – Ivan Wooly photo
Early Years and Challenges
The hotel was completed amidst financial struggles, but its location and design attracted conventions and gatherings, including a YMCA conference in 1916. Despite these successes, by 1918, ownership changed hands when J. L. Bowman of the Brownsville Woolen Mill Store in Portland purchased the property. Bowman leased the hotel to Mr. and Mrs. George L. Spencer, who elevated its reputation as a high-class resort with features such as chicken dinners and the famous “Spencer Hot Gingerbread.” A giant fir tree near the hotel became a prominent attraction, boasting a circumference of 41 feet and a height of 300 feet.
The Arrah Wanna Hotel Now Open For Business – The Oregon Daily Journal Jult 29, 1913
A Tragic Fire and Rebirth
On June 5, 1922, tragedy struck when the Arrah Wanna Hotel burned to the ground. The fire, fanned by strong winds, reduced the wooden structure to ruins within half an hour. Despite the destruction, the surrounding cottages and J. L. Bowman’s summer home were saved.
By May 1924, a new hotel rose on the site, featuring 17 guest rooms and 10 bungalows, the lodge was constructed primarily of native fir with hard maple floors. Modern conveniences including an electric plant at the Salmon River, hot and cold running water and the traditional activities such as hiking, trout fishing, and berry picking drew guests. A boardwalk along the river and new bungalows were added to enhance the experience.
“View of Modern Structure Which Replaces Building Burned Down Year Ago”
Growth and Changing Management
John L. Bowman passed away July of 1928. He was the president of the Brownsville Woolen Mills and a large part of the history of the Arrah Wanna Hotel for ten years.
J. L. Bowman, Arrah Wanna Hotel owner, dies – The Oregonian July 20, 1928
Throughout the 1920s and 1930s, Arrah Wanna Hotel underwent various management changes and improvements. Dining options like their specialty, $1.50 chicken with mashed potatoes and gravy dinners were advertised. Entertainment, including music, dancing, and campfire gatherings, enriched the guest experience. By 1936, beer was served at the lodge under a new license but management of the lodge struggled. Despite these efforts, financial difficulties led to periodic closures and the hotel being listed for sale or lease.
The New Arrah Wanna Hotel
Oregon Baptist Church Buys Arrah Wanna
In 1941, the lodge entered a new chapter when a Baptist church group purchased the property for $12,750 to create a summer camp. Renamed Camp Arrah Wanna, the facility hosted its first youth camp that summer. A five-year improvement plan included the addition of a Bible house, tabernacle, dining hall, and swimming pool. The camp became a cornerstone for religious retreats and youth activities in the area.
“Arrah Wanna Inn, Brightwood Mt Hood Loop Oregon”
Into Modern Times
By 1952, a new swimming pool was constructed, and in 1962, $50,000 was allocated for further improvements. From 1969 Arrah Wanna was one of the camps throughout the state that hosted Portland Public Schools Outdoor School program. A program of six days of outdoors camp where sixth grade students learned about science and nature.
Today, Camp Arrah Wanna remains under the ownership of the American Baptist Churches of the Central Pacific Coast, serving as a retreat and recreational facility. It is also available for conferences and events.
Camp Arrah Wanna Today
Legacy of the Arrah Wanna Hotel
From its early days as a luxurious mountain hotel to its transformation into a church camp and community center, the Arrah Wanna Hotel has been a vital part of Oregon’s history. Its scenic location, rich activities, and mountain lodge charm continue to captivate visitors and uphold its legacy as a beloved landmark in the Mount Hood area.
It all started late in the season around midnight on October 13, 1952. The forest around Mt. Hood was as dry as a bone. Trouble came, starting south of the Mt. Hood Highway just east of Rhododendron. Flames popped up near Yocum Falls, moving their way down through Laurel Canyon and stretching toward Flag Mountain. At first, officials thought a tree falling on a power line might have been ignited the fire. The Sandy Electric Company asserted that the initial fire at Yocum Falls might have been caused by men violating the hunting ban rather than a 33,000-volt power line.
A second fire broke out from wind blown embers near Still Creek along the north slope of Zigzag Canyon, threatening summer homes in that area. The fire caused landslides and loosened large rocks at the top of ridges, sending them toward the Zigzag River, making the situation more even more dangerous for firefighters.
Homes in Mt. Hood Region Threatened by Forest Fires
By Tuesday, October 14, another fire erupted, burning up Henry Creek toward Devils Canyon near Rhododendron. The dry east winds were blowing with their typical intensity, fanning the flames and making life miserable for everyone, especially the firefighters.
Crews prepare to fight fires at the Zigzag Ranger Station, Zigzag Oregon
The Mt. Hood Highway was closed, roadblocks went up at Sandy and Bend, only letting through emergency vehicles and buses. Traffic was rerouted through the Columbia River Gorge or the North Santiam Highway. Firefighters hosed down wooden bridges on the highway, while residents were hosing down the roofs of their homes and cabins, hoping to keep the embers at bay. Folks living nearby in Rhododendron got ready to pack up and leave if needed. The county’s civil defense agency was on high alert, ready to step in if the fires threatened private homes. Fortunately, that didn’t happen.
Radio dispatcher communicating during the forest fires
Come Wednesday, October 15, things got even worse. A third fire started near Brightwood around noon that day, burning through heavy ferns and second-growth timber. In that fire arson was suspected as it was reported by local residents that two teenage boys in a blue coupe were seen speeding away from the area. Police put out the word to watch for them, but the boys were never found.
Tired from all-night battle against forest fire which blackened the butte north and east of Brightwood, crew headed by Eldon Stroup, (second from left), ranger from Umpqua National Forest, rests after coming off shift. Men are, (from left) John Burr, Ted Winter and Jim Hawkins.
By Thursday, October 16, the fires had everyone on edge. The Brightwood fire made a run toward the Bull Run watershed, where Portland gets its water. Winds pushed the flames up Boulder Creek closer to Bull Run. In Rhododendron, a 120-man crew was scrambling to put a fire line around the blaze near Henry Creek. A total of 400 firefighters were working in the area. Meanwhile at Zigzag Ranger Station, local women volunteered to make sandwiches to help keep the fire crews fed.
Logistics, supplies, at the Zigzag Ranger Station, Zigzag Oregon.
Finally, Friday brought some good news. The firefighters had the upper hand, and by October 17, they had most of the fires contained. Crews—all 700 of them—had been working around the clock, with another 200 focused just on Brightwood. The fires had burned an estimated 1,200 acres by then, with the Brightwood blaze alone covering anywhere from 300 to 400 acres. But the danger wasn’t over yet. Northeast winds and low humidity kept everyone on alert, hoping the forecast might bring some long-overdue rain.
A firefighter mans a hose in the forest near Mount Hood Oregon.
When it was all said and done, the fires left their mark, but they also showed what a community can do when disaster strikes. From firefighters risking it all on the front lines to locals supporting firefighting efforts, folks hosing down their homes and making sandwiches, it was a team effort. The forest would heal, but the stories of that fiery week in October 1952 will endure.
The fire at night
These photo are scanned from negatives from my personal collection.
A scorched hillside from the fire near Mt Hood The forest burns during the forest fires near Mount Hood Oregon
In the early 1900s, the Montavilla neighborhood of Portland, Oregon, was home to one of its most fascinating figures: Dr. William DeVeny. Known as the “Buffalo Bill of Portland,” DeVeny was a community leader, civic advocate, and larger-than-life character who left a lasting legacy in Montavilla and the Mount Hood region.
DeVeny’s striking appearance, with long hair, a thick beard, and his signature buckskin attire, earned him his nickname, reportedly bestowed by Buffalo Bill Cody himself. But DeVeny was more than a local icon—he was a man of action.
A Visionary for Montavilla
DeVeny was deeply committed to improving Montavilla. As secretary of the Montavilla Board of Trade, he led efforts to attract businesses to the area, including a fruit cannery, chair factory, and broom factory. He championed better schools, clean water, and libraries, believing these were the keys to a thriving community.
One of his most ambitious campaigns was advocating for Montavilla’s annexation to Portland. DeVeny argued that annexation would bring essential improvements, such as deeper water mains to prevent freezing in winter and better funding for schools. Although his push faced resistance and was defeated in initial votes, DeVeny persisted, convinced that annexation would benefit the neighborhood.
In 1907, his political aspirations led him to run for city council. However, his campaign was marred by a petition controversy when hired collectors submitted duplicate signatures. Though he was not directly involved, his name was removed from the ballot, marking a setback in his political career.
Connecting the Mount Hood Wilderness
DeVeny’s passion for community development extended beyond Montavilla to the wilderness surrounding Mount Hood. He owned a cabin near the mountain, which he named The Scout’s Rest in homage to Buffalo Bill Cody’s Nebraska ranch.
Recognizing the importance of accessibility, DeVeny spearheaded the construction of a road connecting the Mount Hood automobile road to Truman Road on the north side of the Sandy River. Known as DeVeny Road, the project required multiple bridges and opened vital pathways for settlers, forest rangers, and tourists.
Completed in 1913, the road was a significant milestone in connecting communities and encouraging tourism in the Mount Hood region. Although later renamed Lolo Pass Road, DeVeny’s efforts are still remembered as a crucial step in the area’s development.
A Complex Character
Throughout his life, DeVeny’s views evolved. Once an advocate for military training for boys, he later voiced support for anti-war sentiments, particularly during the early days of World War I. Some speculate that his shift was influenced by his sons’ draft eligibility.
Beyond his civic and political work, DeVeny was a skilled chiropodist and photographer, operating studios with his wife, Martha, before settling in Portland. He was also an advocate for women’s suffrage and equal rights, reflecting his progressive outlook for the time.
A Lasting Legacy
Dr. William DeVeny passed away in 1918 at the age of 65. He was remembered by The Oregonian as a civic leader, community advocate, and friend of famous frontiersmen. His contributions to Montavilla and Mount Hood have left an indelible mark on Oregon’s history.
Today, as visitors travel the trails of Mount Hood or walk the streets of Montavilla, they tread paths shaped by DeVeny’s vision. His life serves as a reminder of the impact one person can have on a community, blending progress with a pioneer’s spirit
This is the old Mountain View Inn under heavy snow in the 1940’s. The Mountain View Inn was a hotel in the littleMt Hood town of Government Camp, Oregon.
The Mountain View Inn was originally the home of Lena Little, wife of pioneer homesteader Francis C. Little. The building was relocated from its original place to the north side of the main road through Government Camp.
Not long after it was relocated Jack Rafferty leased it to be converted into a hotel called Rafferty’s or Rafferty’s Hut. He later bought the property. Later the place was called the Tyrolian Lodge. It was closed through World War II.
After the War Harry Albright re-opened the inn and changed the name to the Mountain View Inn.
The old Inn burned in 1955. It was located across the street from Daar’s ski shop which is Charlie’s Mountain View today.
. The Mount Hood Aerial Transportation Company was formed with a plan to create an aerial tramway to Timberline Lodge on the south slope of Mount Hood from Government Camp, the gathering spot for every activity on The Mountain. It was to be called The Skiway
In the early days the Welches Hotel wasn’t the only resort in the Salmon River Valley in the foothills of Mount Hood, Oregon. About a mile past the Welch’s place, at the end of the road, was Tawney’s Mountain Home. Situated along the Salmon River with vast stretches of wilderness surrounding it, Tawney’s Hotel was an outdoor vacation destination from 1910 to 1945.
Hotel Maulding, Welches, Oregon
The hotel was built on a portion of the old Walkley family homestead south of Welches. The Walkley’s didn’t operate a hotel, but they kept boarders in their home. John Maulding and his wife bought the property in 1906, which included 100 acres and the Walkley home. The home was remodeled and enlarged using the homestead house for the dining room, with an addition for lodging, turning it into what was known as the Maulding’s Hotel.
In 1909 Francis H. Tawney and his wife Henriett leased the property and in 1910 they purchased it and started improvements to the hotel. In 1913 a fire burned a large portion of the old hotel building. A new two story addition was quickly built and new hotel was ready for guests in 1914.
Tawney’s Hotel, Welches Oregon before the fire
Tawney’s Hotel was a large building with 15 guest rooms. Because the hotel was so popular, they erected tent cabins on the grounds outside to accommodate more guests. As you entered the building you came into a huge living area with a large rock fireplace. There was a large staircase leading to the upper floor where the guest rooms were located. Adjoining the living room was a huge dining room with its own fireplace and a large dining table. There was only one indoor bathroom, with commode and a bathtub. It was located off the dining room. It was said that you practically needed a reservation if you wanted to use it.
Back then a week’s stay cost $10, including meals. Mrs. Tawney, with the help of Emily, the wife of their only son Clyde, cooked for the guests. She served the meals Family Style with full platters of chicken, roast beef, and steak. She always had jams, fresh bread, pies, and canned foods available. She made large sugar cookies for the children, but it was common for the adults to raid the cookie jar.
Tent Bungalows at Tawney’s Hotel, Welches Oregon
Keeping the hotel supplied with food could be challenging during busy times. There could be up to 150 people there to enjoy a Sunday dinner. In addition to the food that they supplied themselves some staples and canned goods were delivered once a week from Portland. There was also a butcher wagon who would make daily deliveries from Sandy to the hotels and cabin residents during the summer. He would arrive and open the doors to the insulated wagon to show different cuts of beef and lamb packed in ice.
The Tawney’s kept their own animals, including cows, pigs, and chickens. They had horses for guests to ride and a pair of donkeys for the children. Frequently Mr. Tawney would take a party of people on a wagon trip to Government Camp to pick huckleberries and have a picnic lunch.
Tawney’s Hotel, Welches Oregon after the fire showing new addition.
They had a garden, an apple orchard and had berries for pies. They also used wild game and trout from the river and local creeks, sometimes supplied by the guests. The Salmon River was located nearby and provided lots of swimming and fishing. In 1910, B. Trenkman, C.J. Cook, and L. Therleson made a 1.5-hour trip up to Camp Creek for fishing. The three men came back with 286 trout. It was said to be one of the best meals at the Tawney Hotel.
Nell Howe, a longtime resident, remembered on summer days the most wonderful food. She said, “In the summertime the tables in the dining room were full for every meal and sometimes people were waiting their turn.” When guests looked back, they remember their fun summer memories of swimming in the river, fishing, helping with the chores, and enjoying the food.
Guests at Tawney’s Hotel, Welches Oregon
The hotel closed its doors in 1945, most likely due to the loss of business and the scarcity and cost of goods during World War II. The Tawney’s were in their later years by this time and the work involved in running a business like that was in their past. Mr. Tawney passed away in 1947 and soon after Mrs. Tawney moved to Portland with her daughter and son-in-law. She lived until 1959.
Sometime in the late 1950’s the old Tawney’s Mountain Home collapsed under the load of a heavy snowstorm. The property sold and the new owner demolished what was left of the old building leaving the two stone fireplaces as the only evidence of the good old days of Tawney’s Mountain Home and a significant part of the history of Welches Oregon.
Oregon pioneer history (1806–1890) is the period in the history of Oregon Country and Oregon Territory, in the present day state of Oregon and Northwestern
The Mt Hood Golf Course – Nestled deep within the Salmon River Valley in the foothills of Mount Hood is situated one of Oregon first and most beautiful golf courses. Today it includes a resort with all of the luxuries and amenities needed for a restful and enjoyable day on the links or for an extended vacation and base for day trips to the iconic Mount Hood territory.
In 1928 Ralph Shattuck and George Waale envisioned a golf course in Billy Welch’s pasture. The original name was “The Mt Hood Golf Course”. They leased the land from Billy with an option to buy, where they built the first nine holes and made Welches the first Oregon golf resort. Today these first nine holes, named “The Original Nine”, are known as “Pinecone”. Shattuck and Waale operated the course until 1939, when Billy and Jennie Welch took back the land and the course. Billy Welch died in 1942, leaving Jennie to operate the business.
In 1944 Jennie sold the property to J. P. Lich and his wife Oberta. J.P. Lich sold the property to Leo Hueval. Leo Hueval struggled to pay the mortgage and the property returned to J.P. Lich, who then sold to Eugene and Peggy Bowman in 1948. The Bowman’s changed the name to “Bowman’s Golf Club”. The Bowman’s added an additional nine holes named “Thistle” on land cleared by J. P. Lich for that purpose, making it an 18 hole course. The Bowman’s operated the business until 1978.
In 1973 American Guaranty purchased land across the road from the course where they built a conference center, restaurant and additional rooms for lodging. In 1979 they bought out Bowman and consolidated the two businesses and named the operation “Rippling River Resort”. A third nine holes were added which was named “The Red Side” but is known today as “Foxglove” which, at the time, made the course the only 27 hole course in Oregon.
Ed and Janice Hopper bought the resort in 1989 and changed the name to “The Resort at The Mountain”. Ed Hopper had Scottish ancestry and introduced a Scottish theme throughout the resort. The Hoppers operated the resort until 2007 where it has gone through several owners and is now named the “Mt Hood Resort”.
The photos included with this story are all real photo postcards of the resort circa ~1950-1960 and are a part of my personal collection.
Pinecone was established in 1928 and is often referred to as the “Original Nine.”
This scenic course offers 360-degree views of the cascading hills of the Mount …
It’s funny how certain situations can go in a full circle. Even old postcards sent on the other side of the world over 100 years ago can find their way back to their origin. I collect old photos and old photo postcards, especially those with historical significance to the towns and the area that surrounds Mount Hood.
In my searches I found a card on the Internet located in Germany that was from Marmot Oregon, written by Adolf Aschoff and sent to a nephew in Germany. I bought the card and in our conversation I asked if there were any more. The seller told me that he had bought one card in a shop in town but would go back to see if there were more. I ended up buying six cards in all. Every one written in old German language in Adolf Aschoff’s meticulous longhand penmanship. The writing is so small one almost needs a magnifying glass to read it.
Because I do not speak or read German I asked friends if anyone could help. My friend Bill White said that his German friend, who lives in Germany, might be able to help. I scanned the messages and then emailed them to Bill who forwarded them to his friend.
Some time passed and Bill forwarded six MS Word Documents to me with the messages typed in German as well as their translation in English. I was so excited and grateful.
Adolf was from Celle Germany. He settled in Marmot in 1883 and built Mount Hood’s first resort, Aschoff’s Mountain Home. He was known for his cheerful and enthusiastic demeanor. He was the prefect host who catered to and entertained his guests and everyone who talked about him described him as cheerful and energetic, but these correspondence paint a more intimate picture of Adolf. Life for him was not easy and had a lot of worry, stress and heartbreak. For more information about Adolf and the town of Marmot you can read about it at this link. CLICK HERE
Below are the photos and their messages.
Adolf Aschoff’s Letters To Home
Adolph at Aschoff’s Mountain Home with his wife Dora, a maid and his two year old German stallion
Marmot, Oregon, July 16, 1908
My dear Otto!
It always goes on in business, from early in the morning to late in the evening. A lot of annoyance and little joy is my experience. Again I just lost a beautiful horse, my wife thought a lot about the (poor) animal. She called it hers. We have a lot of rain and it is quite cold and then we have very deep paths again – everything seems to go wrong, even in nature.
On the other side (of the postcard) you can see our house. No. 1 is my wife, No. 2 is a maid. I keep my two year old German stallion.
Best regards. Your old (friend) Adolf Aschoff
Adolph and Dora’s youngest son Gustav at fifteen years old on a foal. He was riding it for the first time.
Marmot, Ore. March 22, 1910 6 am
Dear Otto!
We are desperately awaiting a sign of life of you from the old homeland with every incoming mail – and from day to day – week to week etc. I am trying to find the time and opportunity to write to you. I have not been well for quite some time now – I suffer headaches – melancholy etc. I wish I could sell us – had a great offer but my wife wasn´t please. If I don´t try to visit Germany soon – I will probably never see it again. Both of our sons, Ernst and Henry, are now fathers of two strong boys. – We had an awful time with our three daughters in the last year – all three of them had major operations in the hospital, and now our Emma is back at the hospital and is being operated again.
On the other side (front side) you see Gustav, our youngest son on a foal, as he was riding it for the first time, he is 15 years old.
Please, write to me very soon. Have a happy Easter wishes you your uncle Adolf Aschoff
The town of Marmot
Marmot, Ore. July 19, 1910
Dear Otto,
Your endearing letter has been received. Your letter has doubled the desire to see you and the beloved old homeland – I know I would be welcome at your home and if you knew me better, you would know that a westerner does not cause any inconvenience – We have loads of trouble, loads of work – with the hay harvest and everything adds together – The salary for the workers is very high – chef (lady) $70.00 per M, house maid $20-25.00, day laborers $2.50 – $4-5 per day. I don´t know how this is going to end. All workers only want to work 8 hours – but we are usually working 18 hours a day – will write as soon as I have a few minutes to myself
Best wishes from all of us, Your uncle Adolf Aschoff
“Bachelor Cabin” at Marmot.
Marmot, Ore. February 25, 1911
My dearest Otto,
I hope you have received the newspaper “The Oregonian”, I am sending you the same one, so you can get an idea of the growth of the American cities. As we arrived in Oregon, Portland was about the size of Celle – now Portland has more than 230,000 citizens. We are well, except for Otto, who has been in the hospital for months. Best wishes to you and your dear family.
Your uncle Adolf Aschoff.
PS: I will try to write you a letter soon.
Museum and Post Office at Marmot Oregon
Marmot, Ore. 6/13/1912
My dear Otto,
I haven´t heard anything from you for quite some time now, I try to receive a sign of life, “an answer” to this postcard. I am sending you a newspaper with this letter and I send more if you are interested.
Various accidents have again happened to our family. Our daughter Marie is very sick – our son Ernst has fallen of a …?…. post and our son Otto has chopped himself in the leg. Due to the incautiousness of a stranger I have been thrown of my carriage and I suffer pain in my right arm and shoulder. More work than ever, I wish we could sell us, it is getting to much for my wife and me – from 5 am to 11 pm day to day we slave away (like ox) without a break. Dear Otto, I hope you and your loved ones are well and at good health.
The most sincere wishes from all of us to you and your dear family.
Your uncle Adolf Aschoff
“The good old Summer Time Boys on “Juicy” in the orchard”
Marmot, Ore. January 30, 1913 – To: Mrs. Adele Aschoff
My dear friends,
Marmot shows a different picture these days than on the other side of this card. The snow has started to melt, but it will take a long time until the last traces will be gone.
Our dear daughter Marie is still very sick, it is better on some days and then she suffers bad seizures.
Best wishes,
Your Adolf Aschoff
The Barlow Road at marmot Oregon
Marmot, Ore. Nov. 19. 1916
My dear Adele, (Mrs. Adele Aschoff)
Thank you very much for your wishes – I am very happy that our dear Otto is still healthy and I hope that he soon will be back with his loved ones well and brisk. Please send him my best regards. I haven´t received anything from Eugen in the last months – newspapers etc. No news have arrived since February from you as well as Eugen. My son Karl has broken his arm when he started (? “up-winded”) an automobile – my wife is very sick again. Please write back to me even if it´s only a few lines.
Adolph Aschoff (May 21, 1849–1930) was a homesteader in the U.S. state of
Oregon in the late 19th century. He established the community of Marmot,
Oregon …
The History of Government Camp Oregon, on the south side of Mount Hood.
Government Camp is located on the south face of Mount Hood at 4000 feet in elevation. By tradition Government Camp is a “ski town”. Even before the ski resorts people used to make their way to Mount Hood in the Winter to snowshoe and ski in the winter and hike in the Summer. Government Camp is home to the famous Timberline Lodge. Timberline Lodge was built during the Great Depression as a WPA Works Progress Administration project and is an Historic Monument and national treasure.
In May of 1845 the United States appropriated $75,500.000 to mount and equip an army regiment to establish posts along the Oregon Trail. It was later decided to divert the effort to the Mexican war. In 1849 Lieutenant William Frost brought an immense wagon train through from Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. 429 wagons, drawn by 1716 mules arrived at Fort Dalles with 250 tons of freight. A part of this contingent traveled by boat to Vancouver, as planned. While the rest were waiting for available boats, someone up high in command decided to send the remainder up and over the Barlow Road to Oregon City. Mules, in poor condition, were pulling heavily overloaded wagons. Many literally starved on the trek over the Barlow Road. As usual, it was late in the fall, with winter threatening. About 45 wagons had to be abandoned, before the train descended Laurel Hill. For many years the vicinity was known as “the government camp on Still Creek”. Later, capitalizing of the names indicated that the title Government Camp had gained full acceptance. An actual community was not developed until the advent of O.C. Yocum, Francis C. Little, and William G. Steel, all of whom filed for homestead rights. Some travelers used Summit Meadow.
Yocum platted parts of his claim in blocks and named the North/South streets 1st, 2nd and 3rd. He spelled his name on the East/West streets, Yule, Olive, Church, Union and Montgomery. The plat was called Pompeii. He later called his town Government Camp and tried to establish a Post Office with that name but the government objected to the two-word name. So he changed it to Pompeii and was granted a post office with that name. But the name of Government Camp Oregon had stuck and the post office was eventually changed to Government Camp.
OC Yocum built the Mountain View House hotel in 1899, and Lige Coalman bought it in 1910. Lige built the Government Camp Hotel the next year. He sold his hotels and the both burned in 1933.
George Calverly built a café at the East end of town and his wife operated it. Everett Sickler and Albert Krieg built the Battle Axe Inn in 1924. It burned on November 7, 1950. Charlie Hill built and ran Hills Place across from the Battle Axe Inn from 1932 until it burned in 1969. The Rafferty’s built and ran a hotel next to the Battle Axe Inn. It changed hands and names, the Tyrolean Lodge and the Mountain View, several times before it burned down in 1954.
Marmot Oregon is a place more than it is a town. It is located along the last stretch of the Oregon Trail, the old plank covered Barlow Road. Between 1883 and 1930 it was a destination for many people that came to experience the great outdoors and to launch their adventures on Mount Hood. Located in the forested foothills in the west side of Mount Hood about six miles east of the town of Sandy, Marmot is situated on a ridge with the Sandy River to the south and the Little Sandy River and Bull Run to the north. It was a wilderness when Marmot was established.
The Barlow Road – Marmot Oregon 1920
The story of Marmot is less about a town or a place than it is about a man. Marmot’s pioneer and developer of the town’s commercial ventures, such as its store, hotel, stables and museum were owned and operated by Johann Adolf (Adolph) Aschoff. There were no other businesses there. Aschoff was even Marmot’s postmaster when the post office was established in 1890, where he kept meticulous records in perfect penmanship. Adolf Aschoff was a German immigrant who has cemented his name into the fabric and history of Mount Hood and the south side towns between Sandy and Government Camp and indeed, the whole Mount Hood National Forest.
Dorotea “Dora” Gein & Johann Adolf Aschoff
Adolf Aschoff was born in Celle, Hanover, Germany, May 21, 1849. He was the son of a shoe manufacturer who was said to have descended from Russian royalty. He was educated for the clergy but his love for the outdoors led his path in other directions. Adolf’s father wanted his children to be educated and cultured and not have to work in the factories like he had. Adolf’s education covered language, history, theology, art, music and physical sciences. He worked with the Royal Forester when he was 16, an experience that will serve him well in his life. Adolf became a very talented musician, artist and storyteller and one of Mount Hood’s earliest photographers.
Adolf Aschoff pen drawing
In 1866 at the age of 17, while still in Germany, he organized a club of enthusiastic young men called “Maybugs”. Their activities varied from studying to fun making, and perhaps a little political activism. It seems that this group became involved in trouble with a group of Prussian officers. This was during the Austro-Prussian War and, although Hanover tried to maintain a neutral position, in June of 1866 Germany mobilized troops against Prussia which ended up dissolving Hanover and its subsequent annexation by Prussia. That Summer saw 17,000 Prussian soldiers cross over the Hanover boundary line. Adolf was involved in taunting the invading soldiers as well as plastering violent posters all over which made him very unpopular with the Prussians. One night the “Maybugs”, said to have been a bit tipsy, bumped into several Prussian officers. There was a tussle and three of the officers were knocked down. As a result of this he was forced to flee. He claimed to have escaped and ran to a lake where he stayed submerged, except for his face, for a day and into the night. He made his way to the home of a female benefactor, said to be Princess Fredericka, who provided help to facilitate his escape to Austria, then to France and eventually to England where a forged passport allowed him passage to America, entering as a political exile.
Adolf arrived in New York in November of 1869 on the steamer Nebraska. He made a living for some time as a wood carver and engraver but New York was too crowded for him. He went to New Jersey, then to Illinois and finally to Kansas in 1871 where he and his brother Ernest took up a homestead. In 1872 Adolf Aschoff married Dorotea “Dora” Gein in Rush County Kansas. Dora was born in Germany November 21st, 1853 and had immigrated to America with her parents when she was 14 years old. Adolf and Dora had a farm while in Kansas where their first four children were born. His time in Kansas provided much material for stories that he’d tell the rest of his life. He told tales of his adventuresome days as a pioneer and cowboy and how he had met the likes of “Calamity Jane” and was hired by “Buffalo Bill” Cody hunting buffalo to supply meat to the railroads.
While in Kansas Aschoff watched as wagons of people heading to Oregon passed by his farm and in 1882 he and Dora decided to do the same. They left their homestead and moved to Portland, Oregon where they lived near Mt Tabor. They raised and sold vegetables around town for a living. Adolf was described as looking like a nobleman with a trim little goatee, elegant manners, a strong German accent and, with his gift for storytelling as well as his artistic and musical talents, found it easy to gather influential friends while living in the city. These friends and connections proved to be invaluable in the following years as he developed his resort in Marmot.
Adolf Aschoff Mt Hood’s first Forest ranger
Adolf and Dora moved from Portland to Marmot in the Spring of 1883 where they paid $900 for 240 acres of land located along the last section of the Oregon Trail known as The Barlow Road. It was located between the little town of Sandy and Mount Hood and was situated on a ridge the settlers used to call “The Devil’s Backbone”. The land was beautiful forestland with the Sandy River to the south side and the Little Sandy River and what would become the Bull Run watershed to the north. At that time it was the only road to Mount Hood from Portland and the travelers to and from the mountain passed by his land, and in 1883 it was the furthest east outpost between Portland and Mount Hood. Marmot became a regular stop along the way for travelers.
The road to Aschoff’s Mountain Home – Barlow Road near Marmot Oregon
Immediately after acquiring the land Adolph started work on a log cabin for him and Dora, but it soon became clear that many of the friends that he made in Portland were interested in coming to the Aschoff’s to stay or launch adventures to Mount Hood. Adolph was quoted as saying, “I never really intended to run a resort, but my friends importuned until I had to, and I have had as many as 200 guests at one time.” Many climbing parties started from Marmot with Adolf acting as a guide. He built guest cabins and started entertaining borders and guests at 50 cents per day or $3/ week. Business was so good that he built a hotel and by 1902 had expanded to 23 rooms. The hotel was named “Aschoff’s Mountain Home”. It was a large two story building with balconies surrounding both levels with ornate trim that reflected its owner’s artistic abilities. The main level contained a large dining room which could seat 100 people, a kitchen with a huge wood burning stove and a zinc covered sink board as well as a sitting room and a bedroom. Upstairs held seven bedrooms.
A log cabin at Ashchoff’s, Marmot Oregon
In 1890 Adolf built a post office and became the postmaster for “Marmot Oregon”. It’s an interesting story about how he chose the name Marmot for his town. When he arrived there he noticed burrows which some locals had told him were made by marmots but he later discovered them to be mountain beavers. When the post office was established Aschoff and two of his friends decided to name it “Marmot” in spite of this error.
Aschoff’s Mountain Home Marmot Oregon
Adolf built a store where he sold essentials to guests and travelers. He also built a museum on the site where he displayed relics of the past, his artwork, photographs as well as mounted displays of animals that he had hunted. The animals were featured in a display at the Lewis and Clark Exposition in 1907 in Portland, Oregon.
The town of Marmot Oregon
On May 19, 1897, he was appointed the first Forest Ranger for the Cascade Range Forest Reserve, which became the Mount Hood National Forest and was soon appointed as Supervisor in charge of many Rangers. Adolf is credited with blazing the Skyline Trail between Mount Hood and Mount Jefferson. His service lasted until 1906 when he left due to disagreements with supervisors and the bureaucracy of the job. He resigned from the Forest Service.
Museum and Post Office at Marmot Oregon
Adolf and Dora had nine children. The first four were born while he and Dora still lived in Kansas. Operating a hotel, a post office, being a guide as well as his position as the Mount Hood National Forest supervisor was a lot of work and so having a large family helped.
“Marmot Ore. Pony Express Rider”
Mary Sophia Aschoff (1873–1914) 25 Sep 1873 • Pioneer Township, Rush, KS
Ernest John Aschoff (1876–1954) 21 May 1876 • Pioneer Township, Rush, KS
Amelia O Aschoff (1878–1939) 29 Oct 1878 • Pioneer Township, Rush, KS
Otto Ernest Aschoff (1880–1958) 13 Aug 1880 • Pioneer Township, Rush, KS
Henry Aschoff (1882–1961) 4 Nov 1882 • Marmot, Clackamas, Oregon
Emma Margaret Aschoff (1885–1973) 29 Apr 1885 • Marmot, Clackamas, OR
Margarette Aschoff (1887–) Mar 1887 • Marmot, Clackamas, OR
Karl Aschoff (1889–1931) Apr 1889 • Marmot, Clackamas, OR
Gustav Adolph Aschoff (1895–1914) 08 Jan 1895 • Marmot, Clackamas, OR
“The good old Summer Time – Boys on “Juicy” in the orchard – Aschoff’s Mountain Home”
A part of running his hotel entailed stabling and feeding relief horses for freight wagons that operated on the old Barlow Road. Adolf was often involved in driving wagon loads of vacationers to Government Camp where they would enjoy the sights and activities found there including hiking and climbing Mount Hood. This allowed Adolf to become acquainted with Will Steel, best known for his campaign to create Crater Lake National Park and for the creation of the Mazama climbing club, and O. C. Yocum, famed Mount Hood pioneer guide, and was soon climbing and guiding tourists on Mount Hood himself. This led to his participation in the organizational climb of July 19, 1894 when the Mazama climbing club was created, where he became a prominent and active charter member.
The Barlow Road near Marmot Oregon
Through his association with the Mazamas he hosted many events at Aschoff’s Mountain Home where he would have up to 200 people come out at once. They would come up from Portland to Troutdale where they would board the train that would take them to the Bull Run powerhouse where a freight and passenger depot was located. From there they would hike to Marmot. It’s told that it was a common sight to see Adolf walking down the road to meet his guests and accompany them back to Marmot.
A Mazama hiking party at Marmot Oregon 1920
Life at Marmot was good. With the activities centered on his involvement with the tourist trade, including accommodating and entertaining guests, those must have been some wonderful times. They weren’t easy times but business was good and the Aschoff family did well in the venture. Guests were well taken care of and at meal time the table was filled with good things to eat and was a large family affair. After supper the tables in the room were pushed aside to make room for games, dancing and singing. Adolf enjoyed entertaining his guests. After supper he would entertain his guests by telling tall tales or playing his piano. He told his stories in his thick German accent and in such expressive ways that sometimes it was hard to tell truth from fiction. To the delight of his guests he would bring out his tiny Sheffield scissors and cut silhouettes of birds and animals from paper, some as small as postage stamps.
Adolf Aschoff and a Mazama hiking party at Marmot Oregon 1920
Adolf told a lot of stories but few were recorded or saved but a couple of examples have survived. One was when he was discussing the hazardous local roads one day when he told of how he and his wife were coming home from Gresham in a high box wagon when a grouse flew up from the side of the road spooking the horses causing the wagon to hit the ditch. They both were able to duck and were spared from harm but were trapped under the wagon. “Belief it or no, he stated, “I had to walk a quarter of a mile before I found a fence rail so I could pry up the wagon and get Mama out” One of the listeners reminded him that he too was trapped under the wagon. “Ach,” Snorted Adolf, with a twinkle in his eye, “I forgot all about dot.”
Scissor paper cutting art by Adolf Aschoff
Another was when some Marmot friends were complaining about a sudden change in the weather. Adolf said, “Gentlemen, let me tell you about Kansas. I was driving along in a light one horse wagon on a lovely Spring day. The sky suddenly turned black as night, the rain fell so hard that I could not breath, water filled the wagon box and ran over the top of my shoes. Then the cold wind started to blow. In two minutes my hands were so numb I dropped the reins and had to call to the horse to take me home. When the horse stopped at the barn door I yelled for my wife to bring the axe and chop my feet loose from the ice in the wagon box. Just then the sun came out and melted the ice before my wife could find the axe. Marmot weather is not so bad”.
Aschoff’s Mountain Home – Marmot Oregon
A man of medium height but quite stout in stature, he had amazing strength. Witnesses tell about seeing him hold a 100 pound flour sack at arm’s length with either hand. One time Adolf was demonstrating his strength when he lifted a 200 pound man with his neck. He put his head between the mans legs and lifted him right off the ground but when he was finished Adolf’s head drooped onto his chest and he was only able to raise it by using his hands. He was taken to St Vincent’s hospital in Portland where they found a broken vertebra and a torn tendon. His head was put into a brace and he was inactive for three months until his neck healed. He was eventually able to get full use of his neck back.
Aschoff’s Mountain Home – Marmot Oregon
Sadly in June of 1914 Adolf and Dora’s youngest son Gustav went missing. It is said that he had a quarrel with one of his brothers and Gustav threatened to take his own life and he left. A search took place and his body was eventually found in the Sandy River about a mile from home. The coroner returned a verdict from his inquest that Gustav had died of suicide. This event hurt the Aschoff family deeply.
On July 13th of the same year Adolf and Dora’s oldest child Mary died after a year long illness at 40 years old. Mary had married into one of Sandy Oregon’s pioneer families. She was married to Paul R. Meinig, Sandy’s second mayor, and first official mayor under the new charter of incorporation in 1913.
Aschoff son Gustav on a prize race horse
Four years later Adolf’s wife Dora died. Dora was the glue that kept Aschoff’s Mountain Home working. Adolf was the attraction and the entertainment and did the heavy lifting, but Dora and the children did a lot of the work behind the scenes. The table filled with food each night. The tidy rooms, all with their own clean linens and handmade quilts folded neatly on each bed. The garden and orchard that grew the fruit and vegetables that were used throughout the year. The feeding and stabling of the horses. There was a lot to operating a resort out in the countryside.
Sheep at Aschoff’s Mountain Home – Marmot Oregon
With Dora gone and the children getting older and starting families of their own, coupled with the new Mount Hood Loop Highway bypassing Marmot completely, the place started to deteriorate. Adolf was left alone except for visits from friends on a Sunday where he would, once again, become the happy entertainer that he’d enjoyed so much most of his life in his days that he spent at Marmot.
Cattle at Aschoff’s Mountain Home – Marmot Oregon
Adolf resided at his beloved home until 1929 when he sold everything to Percy Shelley. At the time he was quoted as saying, “I cannot tell you how I feel giving up my place. My nine children grew up here and I have gone through all kinds of hardships, but only God and I know how much I have loved it here.” On May 16, 1930 Adolf Aschoff died in Portland. An era had passed and those that were still around to remember the glory days at Aschoff’s Mountain Home mourned his passing.
Adolph at Aschoff’s Mountain Home with his wife Dora, a maid and his two year old German stallion.
Then on July 4th 1931 the old hotel burned. The Shelley family lost all of their belongings. The buildings on the south side of the road were spared but fell into disrepair quickly. Today there’s not much left of Marmot but if you use your imagination as you pass through you can still picture what it must have been like at the peak of popularity, and why Adolf Aschoff loved it so deeply.
Fishing on the Sandy River – “One of the sports at Aschoff’s”
Source Information: Photos from the Gary Randall collection Information Bill White, Brightwood, Oregon Sandy Pioneers, Early Settlers and Barlow Road Days – Sandy Historical Society Jack Grauer – The Illustrated History of Mount Hood Various newspaper articles from the period
Marmot is an unincorporated community in Clackamas County, Oregon, United States located in the Mount Hood Corridor. It is within the boundaries of the
of Oregon in the late 19th century. He established the community of Marmot, Oregon in the western foothills of Mount Hood in the late 19th century. Most