Posted in Oregon History August 23, 2020 by

Oregonians Love The Heartwarming Story Of Bobbie The Wonder Dog

No matter what’s going on in the world, an inspiring tale of a family reunited against all odds will warm your heart and brighten your day. If you grew up in Oregon, you’ve undoubtedly heard the story of Bobbie The Wonder Dog, but just in case you need something to make you smile today, we thought we’d remind you of this incredible true story.

In August of 1923, the Brazier family took a road trip to Wolcott, Indiana to visit family. The family included parents Frank and Elizabeth, daughters Leona and Nova, and their beloved two-year-old Scotch Collie mix, Bobbie.
Bobbie the Wonder Dog/Facebook
Just a few miles from their destination in Indiana, the family stopped for gas. Bobbie hopped out for some fresh air, and was attacked by three dogs. He ran for his life, the three dogs chasing him.
Bobbie the Wonder Dog/Facebook
The family waited for him to return. When he didn't, they searched everywhere. The Braziers put ads in the local newspaper and put up "Lost Dog" flyers all over town, to no avail. Brokenhearted, they finally gave up and made their way back home to Silverton, Oregon.
The family was devastated by the loss of Bobbie, and they were sure they'd never see him again. But six months later, on February 15, 1924, Bobbie showed up in Silverton!
Bring Bobbie Home/Facebook
Poor Bobbie was very skinny. His fur was matted, his toenails were worn down to nubs, and he was completely exhausted. It was apparent that he'd walked the entire way home...approximately 2,550 miles.
Bobbie's story quickly spread throughout the country, and Bobbie The Wonder Dog became a celebrity. He starred in a silent film, made public appearances, and was the subject of many books.
Bring Bobbie Home/Facebook
Once word got out, the Braziers were contacted by people all across the country who had fed and provided shelter for Bobbie along his journey, confirming that he had, in fact, really walked all the way home. They were able to piece together the route Bobbie took, which included forging rivers and crossing the Continental Divide - in freezing cold, snowy conditions.
When Bobbie died in 1927, he was buried at the Oregon Humane Society's Pet Cemetery in Portand.
Jason Milldrum/Google
His grave site includes a replica doghouse like the one he had at his Silverton home.
Bobbie the Wonder Dog - Silverton Bobbie/Facebook
Bobbie's funeral was quite an affair. It was officiated by the mayor of Portland, and the canine movie star Rin-Tin-Tin famously laid a wreath at Bobbie's grave. All across the country, people remembered Bobbie The Wonder Dog and his heroic journey to return home to his family.
Bobbie the Wonder Dog - Silverton Bobbie/Facebook
The people of Silverton have never forgotten their most famous furry resident. There's a 70-foot-long mural in town that depicts Bobbie's incredible journey. You can see it at 200 S. Water Street, along with another replica of Bobbie's dog house.
Silverton Mural Society/Facebook

Does your family include an amazing dog that makes your life complete? Share your pet photos in our Facebook comments – we’d love to see those furry faces!

Speaking of the history of Silverton, have you visited this cool covered bridge with a Prohibition history?

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