Portland's Best Victorian Holiday Display
Historic Pittock Mansion Brims With Christmas Spirit
Nov 10, 2009
Every year, in mid-November, volunteers hang garlands, trim tall trees, and place colorful poinsettia plants throughout the 22-room mansion. There is always a theme, such as "'Twas The Night Before Christmas," or "Fairy Tales"; this year it is "Tinsel, Trees and Tradition," in honor of Oregon's 150 years of statehood. Visitors will see all the Christmas traditions as they were done in the early 20th century, from writing cards to wrapping gifts and playing music of the times.
Old-fashioned greeting cards are displayed in the Writing Room, and the table in the dining room is set for a feast. In the Music Room, pianists perform on the original family piano, and small instrumental groups play during the season.
Panoramic Views High Above The City
The Pittock Mansion sits on a hilltop 1,000 feet above downtown Portland, on 46 acres of landscaped and wooded grounds. It has sweeping, panoramic views over the city to the Cascade mountains on the horizon. It's a great spot for birdwatching.
Built between 1909 and 1917 in the style of a French Renaissance chateau, the mansion was progressive for its time, with a central vacuum cleaning system and even indirect lighting. Henry Pittock, the owner of The Oregonian newspaper, and his wife Georgiana were elderly when they moved in and did not live long after that to enjoy their 16,000-square-foot home.
Renovated Mansion Attains Historic Status
Over the years, the estate fell into disrepair and was scheduled to be torn down. It was saved in 1964, when the city of Portland purchased it, and after extensive restoration it was opened to the public. The Pittock Mansion was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1974 and is now maintained by the Bureau of Parks and Recreation.
About 80,000 people per year tour the beautifully furnished mansion, which is kept in prime condition by staff and a cadre of dedicated volunteers. It is open daily except Thanksgiving, Christmas, and the month of January. Admission is free for members, $8 for adults, $7 for seniors, and $5 for children aged 6 to 18. Children 5 and under are free. Guided tours are available, or visitors are free to explore the house and grounds on their own.
In addition to the mansion, the charming Gate Lodge, where the estate steward and his family lived from 1918 to 1953, is open. In the Museum Store, holiday decorations, jewelry, toys, books, and other items are sold.
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