Events

Living history presenter Marge Harding will share the elaborate and strict mourning rituals of 19th-century Americans. The people of the 19th century transformed grief into an art form, complete with costume, behavior and tradition. Close adherence to the rules governing the expressions of grief for a deceased loved one was culturally accepted and expected behavior. To better understand and appreciate the mourning rituals of 19th-century America, original mourning clothing and artifacts will be displayed and the importance of the symbolism explained.

Enjoy Oregon Trail-era music on historically-accurate instruments such as hammered and mountain dulcimers, fiddle, acoustic bass, banjo and Native American flute. Local musicians Nancy and Rob Downie share the history and origin of the tunes.

Meet Native artists, learn to make corn husk dolls, and enjoy Native dance and music at the Fort Vancouver Visitor Center on November 2, 2019. This new event, hosted by the Friends of Fort Vancouver and sponsored by Pendleton, will feature regional Native artists and their works, activities for children, books, dance and music.

“November is Native American Heritage Month and this is a wonderful opportunity to learn more about Indigenous culture and art.” stated Mary Rose, Executive Director of the Friends of Fort Vancouver, “We have invited participants to show, discuss, and sell their handmade works. Also, young dancers from the Yakama Nation will perform the Swan Dance which is believed to help promote a sense of belonging and healing.”

Artists will exhibit throughout the day in the Visitor Center’s Theater. Kevin Peters: Redefining Past and Present, an exhibit by Nez Perce artist Kevin Peters, is also on exhibit at the Visitor Center’s Expressions Gallery. The Yakama Nation Swan Dancers will perform at 11:30 am at the Visitor Center.

Children are invited to make corn husk dolls at no charge throughout the day.

Join us for a fun-filled day of visiting with artists and dancers as they express their cultural heritage.

How many waterfalls are there in Oregon?

Who was the first US President to visit the state of Oregon?

How many shipwrecks have happened along the Oregon Coast?

What counties grow the most cherries?

Who was the first known victim of a shark bite in Oregon?

Author Steve Arndt will share the answers to these questions and hundreds more at this presentation of his newest book.

Entertaining and interesting for all who read it, Oregon – Uncommon Facts & Unique Information prompts a spirit of adventure, head scratching, and comments of “I did not know that!” on every page.

November is Native American Heritage Month, and you can spend it learning cultural knowledge in the traditions of Confederated Tribes of the Grand Ronde. Using authentic, natural materials, you can make a hide possible bag, cedar bark rose or ornament, or a beaded necklace. The variety of craft options for a wide range of skill levels makes this a fun opportunity for the whole family. Classes will be interwoven with stories of the tribal traditions and lifeways of Oregon’s First People.

November is Native American Heritage Month, and you can spend it learning cultural knowledge in the traditions of Confederated Tribes of the Grand Ronde. Using authentic, natural materials, you can make a hide possible bag, cedar bark rose or ornament, or a beaded necklace. The variety of craft options for a wide range of skill levels makes this a fun opportunity for the whole family. Classes will be interwoven with stories of the tribal traditions and lifeways of Oregon’s First People.

Learn fun, simple folkdances, as well as how the culture, history, and lifestyle of the Oregon Trail pioneers are reflected in their traditional dances. Alene Hochstetter of “Passport to Dance” will teach visitors of all ages folkdances like the Virginia Reel and Heel Toe Polka. Dance in the steps of pioneers to experience history in a new way.