Working today to preserve the past for future generations.

The Scappoose Historical Society, established in 1974, is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Our mission is to preserve and restore the Watts House Pioneer Museum in Scappoose, Oregon.

In pursuit of our mission, we have discovered the greatest joy in uniting the community at events, engaging with the many who generously support our cause, and proudly serving as hosts to what has evolved into our town's central gathering place.

Upcoming Events & Recent News

  • Trick or Treat with Wanda the Witch: 10/31, 3pm-5pm

    🎃 Come Trick-or-Treat with Wanda the Witch! 🎃

    Stop by the Watts House front porch this Halloween from 3–5 PM to meet our very own Wanda the Witch and enjoy some spooky treats and friendly fun! 👻🍬

    Bring your little goblins, ghosts, and superheroes for a quick visit and photo opportunity — it’s a perfect stop before heading out for evening trick-or-treating.

    📍 Watts House Museum, Scappoose Historical Society
    🕒 Halloween, 3–5 PM

  • History Connections: An Evening with Jeff Smith, 10/21

    📅 October 21 @ 6:00 PM
    📍 The Big Red Barn, 53760 West Lane Road, Scappoose

    As part of our ongoing History Connections series, we are delighted to welcome back a friend of the Historical Society, Jeff Smith—local collector and amateur archaeologist.

    This will be an informal Q&A evening, with Jeff sharing his extensive knowledge of Native American history in our area. It’s a wonderful opportunity to learn, ask questions, and connect with the deep history of Columbia County.

    Please note, this program begins an hour earlier than usual at 6:00 PM.

    The History Connections series is always free of charge (donations appreciated), and the public is warmly invited to attend.

  • PAST EVENT: History Connections: The Pisgah Mountain Home, 9/30

    📅 September 30th @ 7:00 PM
    📍 The Big Red Barn, 53760 West Lane Road, Scappoose

    The Scappoose Historical Society invites you to join us for another History Connections talk, featuring The Pisgah Mountain Home.

    We first shared this program last year, and due to popular demand, we are bringing it back for those who missed it. This time, the event will take place inside the beautiful Historic Red Barn, generously hosted by Renee and Duane Pizzo. There will be plenty of seating and a chance to experience this remarkable local landmark.

    The Presentation

    Local historian Tricia Oberndorf will share the story of the Pisgah Mountain Home in Scappoose.

    In 1911, Mrs. Hattie Lawrence was inspired by the philosophy of Rev. F. E. Yoakum of Los Angeles, who envisioned homes for society’s outcasts. She brought this vision to life in Portland and Columbia County, ultimately building a mountaintop “colony” west of Scappoose.

    This talk will highlight the legacy of Hattie Lawrence’s work and the fascinating history of the Pisgah Mountain Home.

    ✨ Don’t miss this opportunity to learn about one of our region’s most unique historic endeavors, in a setting that’s just as historic!

Ways to Get Involved:

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We rely on your support to make our community better! Thank you to our supporters!

We rely on your support to make our community better! Thank you to our supporters!

Join Us! Become a Member.

Support the Historical Society and the Watts House Museum by joining our sustaining circle of members. Just $15/individual or $20/family annually. We also appreciate donations and rely on the support of the community.

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