The Oregonian, October 20, 1925 - Portland Library, Oregon
PAINTING FUND DESIRED
GEGOUX MASTERPIECE OFFERED HISTORICAL BODY
$5000 needed to purchase "The Inception of the Birth of Oregon"
for state.
The Oregon pioneer association has secured an option on the oil masterpiece of Theodore Gegoux. "The Inception of the Birth of Oregon," which portrays the scene at Champoeg May 2, 1843, when the first territorial government was formed, and has made an appeal to the public for funds to make the purchase and secure this picture for the historical records of the state.
The painting, together with 29 oil portraits of the mayors of Portland, done by the same artist, has been offered to the association for $5000. The large painting, which is 8 by 12 feet, was on display in the United States National bank for several months, where it attracted wide attention among those interested in Oregon history. It may now be seen in the periodical room at the Central library. Many who have seen it have been impressed with its excellence as a graphic portrayal of the historical event at which a civil government was established here.
The Sons and Daughters of Pioneers, several city clubs as well as many individuals, have urged the Oregon Pioneer association to obtain the paintings in order that they might remain permanently in this state. When purchased the group will become the property of the Oregon Historical society, which holds all of its possessions in trust for the people of Oregon. The committee having charge of the movement for the fund is made up of the following members of the
Oregon Pioneer association:
Bruce Wolverton, president
Mrs. Mary Barlow Wilkins, vice-president
George H. Himes, secretary
The following past presidents:
David S. Stearne
John W. Baker
M. C. George
Joseph D. Lee, Portland
C. H. Canfield, Oregon City
The present directors:
J. O. Stearns
John M. Crawford
Charles T. Dickinson
David S. Stearns is treasurer of the fund.
Contributions are being received by Mrs. V. C. Northup and David S. Stearns, care of the Oregon Pioneer association, 253 Market street, Portland.
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