Welcome to the Gladstone Historical Society

Latest News
 Our society is dedicated to the research, documentation, preservation, enjoyment, and public enrichment of the history and heritage of Gladstone, Oregon and the surrounding local area.

The society holds regular monthly meetings that include the business of the society and historically themed programs, presentations, and guest speakers.

Throughout the year, the society also plans various projects and activities of particular historical interest. The society participates in the city's summer festival during which members promote Gladstone's history and answer local history questions.

Enjoy Stories of Gladstone's Historical Past

Picture
Photo of Gladstone, Oregon's first newspaper. Published for one year - 1921.

Since 1992, the society has been actively engaged in the publication of books and calendars that relate the history of Gladstone.   Currently the society contributes to the Gladstone community by including a short article on Gladstone's past in the city's monthly newsletter and creating historical slide show presentation for public viewing in the city's Civic Center foyer (City Hall).
 
​All of the society's events are free,  open to the general public, and  announced regularly in the Gladstone City Newsletter and on our website Meetings page.


Stories from Gladstone's Historical Past appear monthly in the City of  Gladstone, Oregon  Newsletter. 

Get a copy today or read a back issue by clicking here.    
​"What was Chautauqua?"

​ Free Historical Slide Show Starting May 2024
 at the Gladstone Civic Center.
Presented by the
​Gladstone Historical Society
​
Enjoy an overview of the uniquely American phenomenon known as      "CHAUTAUQUA".
This free slide show tells the origins of the Great American Chautauqua from its humble beginnings as an annual summer Bible School outdoor camp to an educational and cultural event that commanded audiences in the thousands.

Discover how Chautauqua came to Gladstone Park and helped to grow a wonderful town. Historic photos. Fun details. Famous people. 
The Gladstone Historical Society is the official historical repository and research facility of Gladstone, Oregon.  We are a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization.
Banner Photo: July 4, 1914 Patriotic celebration hosted by the Hawley Paper Mill at the Chautauqua in Gladstone Park in Gladstone, Oregon USA. 
Crowd is gathered in athletic field near grandstands. Speaker is thought to be W. P. Hawley, owner of the paper mill.
Site copyrighted 2006 by Gladstone Historical Society of Gladstone, Oregon USA  -  Last update 7/2023