Astoria Column Marks 100 Years as an Enduring Symbol of Oregon History
The Centennial Celebration Ignites the North Coast with Signature Events on Saturday, July 18th.
The iconic Astoria Column, one of the Pacific Northwest’s most recognizable landmarks, will celebrate its centennial in July, 2026, marking 100 years since its dedication in 1926. Rising high above the Columbia River and the city of Astoria, the Column has stood for a century as a monument to the region’s rich and layered history.
Completed in 1926, the Astoria Column was inspired by Rome’s Trajan Column and built to commemorate the pioneering spirit of the Pacific Northwest and the founding of Astoria—the oldest permanent United States settlement west of the Rocky Mountains.
Rising 125 feet above the city, the Column stands as a powerful symbol of exploration, perseverance, and place. Its signature spiral sgraffito mural—the only one of its kind in the world—depicts pivotal moments in regional history, from Native American heritage and early exploration to the Lewis and Clark Expedition and the growth of the American West. The centennial is a chance to celebrate local heritage, honor those who built and preserved the monument, and inspire future generations to value their history.
Centennial activities planned for 2026 will honor the Column’s legacy while inviting new generations to engage with Astoria’s past. Signature events will include a multicultural celebration with community groups showcasing Astoria’s heritage, present & future. Visitors and locals will enjoy multicultural entertainment and food, community booths, arts and crafts, live music and more. A rededication ceremony will also occur at the base of the Column.
All are welcome to check the website, https://www.astoriacolumn100.org/, year-round for ongoing centennial events.