The Grave Robbers of St. Mary’s: A Scandal in Portland

Rumors swirl that the body of a local widow was disturbed by 'outsiders' seeking a rumored cancer tumor, prompting doctors to deny the tale and friends to demand investigation.

Steerage Passengers Stage an Armed Strike for Better Food

Twenty-five Texas cowboys on a steamship to Portland organized an armed takeover of the kitchen to force the captain to improve steerage rations.

“Our business is with the captain, not with you; if you open your head again, we'll mop the deck with your carcass.”

The Illegal Prize Fight on the River

While crowds flocked to the banks of the river in Washington Territory, authorities looked on as a brutal prizefight turned into an early-round knockout.

“Four steamers left Portland this morning, crowded with 1,500 or 2,000 people. There was great interest over the matter, many prominent citizens going down to witness the fight.”