Summer's last hurrah........

This is it....or pretty close....the rains will begin, they say on Friday, and not let up much until February, probably....but today was the perfect, sun-filled, 70 degree fall day!

So, we made the most of it by taking a short drive to Champoeg Park to walk the dog. 

Champoeg is an historically significant Oregon State Park, that lies in the north end of the Willamette Valley, about 15 miles south of Portland on the beautiful Willamette River.........pictured here..................

and here......................................................

and here.........................................................

The Willamette, pronounced Will-am-et, flows south to north from Eugene to Portland.  It divides downtown Portland's eastside from the westside and empties into the Columbia River on the western edge of Portland.

Champoeg Park marks the spot where a handful of men voted for Oregon's becoming a part of the United States, instead of England.   They voted to set up a Provisional Government which started the process toward statehood.

The vote was in 1843, but this marker was installed when Champoeg Park was built, by the state, and dedicated in 1901.  This marker designates the exact site of the signing.

This side of the marker, and two of the other sides, list the names of the original signers of the document.

Between 1843 and 1901, there was a major flood that wiped out the thriving community/river port that was located on the Champoeg Park site. 

Fortunately, descendants of those early pioneers realized that this location was of such historical value they wanted the area preserved.  This beautiful state park is the result of their efforts.

  Picnic area of the park....which is a very popular spot throughout the summer, on any weekend there would be a crowd of people in this area. 

The park includes several miles of walking/biking paths, picnic areas, overnight camping and a boat ramp, and since it is close to home, we come here often for family gatherings and, sometimes, just to walk the dog!

What dog wouldn't LOVE all those trees!!!!

For the first time, I am joining the party at Southern in my Heart's Inspiration Friday.  Come join the fun and don't forget to leave a comment. 

Thanks for the visit!