Henry Failing

Hello, this is Nelson Olstead. Today let's visit a gracious reminder of Portland's early days. Now here's Philip Gruber, our spokesman for Pacific Power. Welcome once again to stories of Pacific Power Land, a presentation of Pacific Power and Life, the company that has been serving the electric needs of the region's homes, farms and industries

through more than half a century of progress and growth. Back now to Nelson Olmstead, Pacific Power Land's favorite storyteller. A few years ago, the people of the city of Portland had occasion to demonstrate that they loved the past just as much as they loved progress.

A huge and splendid old mention, built by the wealthy Piddock family in the early years of this century, was put up for sale by the family heirs. Tradition-minded Portlanders raised nearly $70,000, about one-third of the purchase price, through public subscription, in order to preserve the hilltop mention.

The balance of the price came from civic and federal funds, and in 1964 the Piddick property became a part of Portland's public park system. Now open to public view, the massive stone house displays many reminders of the grand and extravagant era which it represents.

But to many partners, the most nostalgic touch of all is the Henry Failing Room, authentically furnished with articles from the home of one of Portland's most influential pioneer citizens. I'm seeing the room. A visitor to the Piddick mentioned might remark, now this takes a fellow back, a back about as far as I can remember.

I can still see that old feeling house, right in the middle of what is downtown today. Fact is, it took the whole block when the public service building is now built in a French style, I guess you'd call it, with port cashiers for the carriages to drive through.