Astoria; Gateway to the Columbia
In early morning light, fog-horns and bells from estuary buoys reminded me of a mariner’s orchestra. We were headed toward the Columbia Bar. Fog and low clouds hugged the low hills and hung like silk curtains over the water. It was this river and its tributaries that carried the Corps of Discovery to this prized and rich location; a river that flows some 1243 miles before tasting the saltwater of the Pacific Ocean. With a light ocean breeze and a brisk 46 degree air temperature we welcomed the words, “breakfast is being served.” After a wholesome, hot, aromatic breakfast we left the Sea Lion among relics of a dynamic period in Astoria’s mighty harvest era. Weathered wood pilings are the only ‘skeletons’ remaining of the noisy and odoriferous canneries that once lined the waterfront. Our early destination was the outstanding Columbia River Maritime Museum and the historic Fort Clatsop. The museum presents an excellent historical account of the early ships that negotiated these angry and often unforgiving waters. The replica of Fort Clatsop provided some appreciation for what members of the Corps had to endure during their 106 day stay in this damp, confined, poorly lit and poorly ventilated structure.
The afternoon saw guests scattering in different directions. Some returned to the maritime museum; others visited the light house and the Lewis and Clark Interpretation Center on Cape Disappointment. A few guests remained behind to visit the Astoria Column and then stroll downtown. This was a rich day of history and beautiful fall scenery. With incredible weather, what could be finer? Everyone was onboard by 6:00 pm as preparation was being made to disembark from this historic city by the sea.
In early morning light, fog-horns and bells from estuary buoys reminded me of a mariner’s orchestra. We were headed toward the Columbia Bar. Fog and low clouds hugged the low hills and hung like silk curtains over the water. It was this river and its tributaries that carried the Corps of Discovery to this prized and rich location; a river that flows some 1243 miles before tasting the saltwater of the Pacific Ocean. With a light ocean breeze and a brisk 46 degree air temperature we welcomed the words, “breakfast is being served.” After a wholesome, hot, aromatic breakfast we left the Sea Lion among relics of a dynamic period in Astoria’s mighty harvest era. Weathered wood pilings are the only ‘skeletons’ remaining of the noisy and odoriferous canneries that once lined the waterfront. Our early destination was the outstanding Columbia River Maritime Museum and the historic Fort Clatsop. The museum presents an excellent historical account of the early ships that negotiated these angry and often unforgiving waters. The replica of Fort Clatsop provided some appreciation for what members of the Corps had to endure during their 106 day stay in this damp, confined, poorly lit and poorly ventilated structure.
The afternoon saw guests scattering in different directions. Some returned to the maritime museum; others visited the light house and the Lewis and Clark Interpretation Center on Cape Disappointment. A few guests remained behind to visit the Astoria Column and then stroll downtown. This was a rich day of history and beautiful fall scenery. With incredible weather, what could be finer? Everyone was onboard by 6:00 pm as preparation was being made to disembark from this historic city by the sea.
