The Oregon White Oak (Quercus garry) is a majestic tree that was named by the famous botanist David Douglas. He felt awkward naming the new species after himself. Instead, he named it after his friend and deputy governor of Hudson’s Bay Company, Nicholas Garry.
The Oregon White Oak is native to Oregon, but it grows all the way up the Pacific Coast, from California to British Columbia. It is a tough tree, resistant to both drought and fire.
For centuries, the Atfalati people of Tualatin Valley would camp and meet under these oaks during their annual migration from Wapato Lake at Gaston to trade, hold meetings, settle disputes, and perform religious rites.
In 1840, mountain man and pioneer Joe Meek settled in the area, along with a handful of fellow mountain men tired of the hardships of trapping in a declining fur trade.
Originally these early settlers picnicked here with the local Atfalati. One incident included over 1,000 Native Americans and 200 settlers. A British warship anchored on the Columbia River brought sailors and new settlers, who would get together here and have horse races, gaming, and rum parties.
The nearby area is now used more for business meetings, and only one of the original five oaks remains, but this is a nice spot for a quick break from Highway 26. There are a couple spots nearby to grab lunch.
To claim credit for this virtual cache: Look at the wood kiosk with the missing panels. There is a green utility box, about 15” x 10”, at the edge of the sidewalk behind you. Send me the two words in the center of the green lid. Keep this info out of your log and photos.
Photos are much appreciated (as long as they avoid showing the utility box) but are not required.
Here's a link with more info about Joe Meek: Wikepedia: Joseph Meek
Virtual Reward - 2017/2018
This Virtual Cache is part of a limited release of Virtuals created between August 24, 2017 and August 24, 2018. Only 4,000 cache owners were given the opportunity to hide a Virtual Cache. Learn more about Virtual Rewards on the Geocaching Blog.