Nestled over 300 metres above the skyline of Portland in the West Hills sits Pittock Mansion. This architectural accomplishment is a symbol of Portland’s transformation from a small lumber town into a bustling city. Here, opulence knows no bounds.
The rags-to-riches story of Henry and Georgiana Pittock began in the late 1800s. Henry began his professional career working for the Weekly Oregonian later he became the owner of that publication in addition to his other businesses, including real estate, banking, railways, steamboats, sheep ranching, silver mining, and the pulp and paper industry. The Pittocks had built themselves an empire, and in 1914 their beautiful home was complete.
Sitting on 19 hectares in the West Hills, the mansion is a huge attraction for history buffs and art lovers. The house is filled with antiques and artwork of the time, much of which belonged to the Pittock family. These include a Steinway grand piano from 1887 and a ceremonial sword once owned by Henry Pittock. An extensive silver and glass collection includes many fine Tiffany pieces. The building is just as impressive as the prizes it contains: circular rooms, ornate plaster and marble work, as well as modern-day amenities such as a central vacuum system and an intercom.
Visitors will appreciate the stunning views from the mansion, arguably the best in Portland. It looks back over the town towards Mount Hood and the Cascade mountains. The gardens are also a real delight Georgiana Pittock was a gardening enthusiast noted for starting Portland’s Rose Festival, in addition to her work in the community.
The Pittock Mansion offers a rare, authentic view into the past. Regular tours are available for additional cost, and visitors will learn a great deal about the home, its history, and the hard-working individuals who dreamed it into reality. For those with an adventurous spirit, take the popular hiking trail up to the mansion. It begins at Lower Macleay Park and winds along the Wildwood trail it is roughly four kilometres to the top.
