As Oregonians, we are known for our pioneering spirit and rugged independence. Even though our state did not join the union until 1859, it has still managed to lead the nation by example many times over the years. If you’ve ever wondered what sets the Beaver State apart from the rest of the country in historical terms, we’ve compiled a list of seven things Oregon did first.

1. Oregon was the first state to vote entirely by mail.
Sheila Sund / Flickr
The Vote-by-Mail system was established in 1998 with Oregon pioneering the way as the first state to standardize this voting method.
2. We were the first state to make Labor Day an official holiday on February 21, 1887.
Ted / Flickr
Labor Day falls on the first Monday of September and celebrates American workers. When it comes to things invented in Oregon, this may be one of the lesser-known Oregonian firsts.
3. In 1973, Oregon became the first state to decriminalize marijuana.
Katheirne Hitt / Flickr
Oregon later legalized recreational cannabis use in 2014, following in the footsteps of Colorado and Washington.

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4. Oregon passed the nation's first bottle bill in 1971.
Rex Roof / Flickr
The Bottle Bill, championed by Governor Tom McCall, added a five-cent deposit to most bottles and cans. This was done in an attempt to address a growing litter problem along the coastal regions, highways, and other public places.
5. The first-ever seal conceived and born in captivity was born at the Seaside Aquarium in 1952.
Rene Mensen / Flickr
However, since Seaside Aquarium did not record its seal birth with the American Association of Zoological Parks and Aquariums, the New York Aquarium holds the record on paper.
6. The first permanent U.S. settlement on the Pacific coast was located in Astoria, Oregon.
uosɐɾ ɹnɥʇɹɐɔɯ / Flickr
John Jacob Astor's Pacific Fur Company founded Fort Astoria in 1811 for the purpose of trading furs.
7. The University of Oregon won the first NCAA basketball tournament in 1939.
Wolfram Burner / Flickr
This may be one of the lesser-known fun facts about Oregon: The Webfoots, as their basketball team was known back then, beat out Ohio State 46–33 in the final game.

Were you aware of any of these Oregon firsts? Which one surprised you the most? Share your reactions with us in the comments below!

For more Oregon history, check out our previous article: A Terrifying, Deadly Storm Struck Oregon In 1962 And No One Saw It Coming.

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Fun Facts About Oregon

Jessica Moore | June 02, 2023

What is Oregon known for?

Oregon is known for many unique and quirky things; from its diverse and beautiful landscapes and geologic regions to its often-dreary weather and charming coastal communities, Oregon is unlike any other state in the country. Other things Oregon is known for include:

 

And if you needed any more motivation to visit the beautiful state of Oregon, here are 18 reasons why everyone should move to the Beaver State.

What are the most beautiful places in Oregon?

The most beautiful places in Oregon include the following:

 

And for even more scenic destinations in the Beaver State to explore, these 13 beautiful places in Oregon are sure to capture your heart.

What stereotypes are there about Oregonians?

There are quite a few stereotypes about Oregonians, and some of them are listed below:

  • Oregonians are serious about their local craft beer
  • They are coffee aficionados and you'll find countless cafes across the state
  • They're pretty serious about recycling and environmental conservation
  • They're likely to be wearing jackets while visiting Oregon's beaches
  • Not everyone who lives in Oregon resides in Portland
  • They're tired of outsiders moving to the state
  • They take clean eating seriously (especially with regard to locally-sourced produce)

 

Check out our list of 11 totally true stereotypes about Oregon to gain an even deeper appreciation of the Oregonian culture.

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