The Quirky Story Behind This Famous Oregon Landmark Will Fascinate You

The statue arrived in Oregon via the Panama Canal, was then transported by train to Salem, then by truck to the capitol building. As workers prepared to hoist it into position, they realized that they lacked equipment for the job, and installation was delayed for several days until heavier machinery could be brought to the site.

Critics lambasted his appearance, complaining that he was not manly enough to represent the rugged Beaver State. They made fun of his puny ax and skimpy blanket.

Oregon Pioneer was not meant to be a woodsman, he explained. His small ax was the type used to build a home, and the canvas tarp over his shoulder came from his covered wagon or tent. Oregon Pioneer's purpose was meant to portray the hardy settler who journeyed to Oregon from afar to make himself a home in this beautiful place.

His gold leaf has been refinished several times. In 1984, when the funding for the re-gilding failed to pass in the legislature, Oregon's schoolchildren all across the state held a penny drive, raising $37,000 for his facelift. His latest renovation occurred in 2000.

Oregon Pioneer recently celebrated his 80-year-old birthday in September, 2018. A birthday party was thrown for him at the Capitol, complete with cupcakes.

During summer months, you can ascend the 121 steps to the observation deck to see Pioneer Man up close. Tower tours are offered at the capitol from June through September on weekday at 10 a.m., 11 a.m., 1 p.m., and 2 p.m..