Oregon: The Beaver State

Written by: Anna Pafenberg

Tucked away in the Pacific Northwest, the state of Oregon thrives on rainy weather and forest environments. The state was first added to the United States of America in 1803 as land bought from the Louisiana Purchase. President Thomas Jefferson sent two explorers, Merriweather Lewis and William Clark to see the new land. They mapped the area, identified new animals and plants, and reached the West Coast. In the 1840s, settlers moving west traveled to Oregon, California, and other western states in hope for gold. The path they set across was called the Oregon Trail. Due to the influx of American settlers in this area, European countries ceded their land and Oregon became the 33rd state in 1859. 

Many theorize how Oregon got its iconic name. Some believe it comes from the French word for hurricane, ouragan, due to the stormy weather. Others think that it comes from a Chinook word, oolighan, which was a type of fish that they ate. The state was nicknamed, ‘The Beaver State’ because the abundance of beavers allowed for a thriving fur trade. Beavers are also the state animal. The Douglas fir is the most common type of tree in Oregon. Besides fur from beavers being a natural resource, lumber is exported at a tremendous rate. 

Oregon has many geological land types. The Columbia Plateau is the largest. The deepest river gorge in the country, Hells Canyon, is found there at almost 5,500 feet deep! On the coast, mountains and forests are found. The Klamath Mountains are one of these ranges featuring the Oregon Caves National Monument. 

Politically, Oregon was one of the first states to support women in their right to vote. Voting rights popped up on the ballot about every four years from 1884 to 1912. When the 19th amendment was passed, they were the first state to grant women the right to vote. The Oregon flag is the only state flag to have a different design on the front and back. 

Overall, Oregon is a fascinating place to go to. From the unique natural climate to the interesting history, this state is one for the books.