The Great Penny Caper: How Portland (Almost) Became Boston Jr.
Portland, Oregon: a city known for its quirky charm, artisanal coffee, and, of course, all things plaid. But have you ever wondered how this lumberjack paradise on the Willamette River got its name? Buckle up, because the story involves a land deal, a coin toss, and a whole lotta hometown pride.
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| How Was Portland Oregon Named |
Stumptown to Something Catchier
Tip: Note one practical point from this post.
Back in the 1840s, the area we now know as Portland was a rough-and-tumble frontier settlement. Folks called it "Stumptown" on account of all the trees being chopped down to make way for, well, everything. Enter Asa Lovejoy (from Boston, Massachusetts) and Francis Pettygrove (from Portland, Maine). These two enterprising fellas decided to team up and develop a proper town.
QuickTip: Don’t just consume — reflect.
The Name Game: East Coast Smackdown
Now, here's where things get interesting. Lovejoy, being a loyal Bostonian, naturally thought the new town should be named after his beloved Beantown. Pettygrove, on the other hand, had a different vision: Portland, just like his hometown in Maine. Neither man would budge. Imagine the dusty streets holding a tense naming standoff – tumbleweeds rolling by for added effect.
Tip: Review key points when done.
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Settling the Score, Tails Never Fails (Unless You're Asa)
A solution was needed, and what better way to settle a disagreement among gentlemen (and maybe not-so-gentlemen) than with a good old-fashioned coin toss? Out came a penny, the fate of a future metropolis resting on its well-worn copper surface. Francis Pettygrove called tails, and wouldn't you know it, tails it was! Portland, Maine, it is!
QuickTip: Look for contrasts — they reveal insights.
And the Rest, as They Say, is History
So there you have it, folks. Portland, Oregon, was almost named Boston Jr., all thanks to a lucky flip of the coin. Just imagine the hipster glasses and Doc Martens everywhere if things had gone differently!
Frequently Asked Questions (Because Let's Be Honest, You've Got Questions)
- How to Flip a Coin Like a Portland Pioneer? Use an old penny, for authenticity! Heads or tails? That's up to you, but just remember, whispering inspirational lumberjack quotes to the coin might not guarantee the outcome ¯_(?)_/¯
- How to Deal with a Disappointing Coin Toss? Chin up, buttercup! Life is full of surprises, and maybe the other option wouldn't have been so great anyway. Besides, Portland sounds pretty darn good, don't you think?
- How to Visit the "Portland Penny"? Head to the Oregon Historical Society in downtown Portland. They've got this legendary penny on display, a tiny testament to the city's big history.
- How to Celebrate Portland's Unique Name? Raise a glass of microbrew (responsibly, of course) and toast to the city that could have been Boston Jr., but thankfully wasn't!
- How to Embrace Your Inner Lumberjack? Grow a beard (optional), wear plaid with pride, and maybe try your hand at axe-throwing (in a safe and controlled environment, please!)
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