Serving Waitsburg, Dayton and the Touchet Valley
Serving Waitsburg, Dayton and the Touchet Valley
The unveiling of the Sesquicentennial Legacy Mural tells the story of the community, celebrating shared heritage, honoring the generations who built its foundations, and reflecting the pride of home. It captures the rich history of the region's people and values that continue to shape it today. More than artwork on a wall, the mural will serve as a lasting symbol of Columbia County's history, spirit, and resilience-a source of pride and connection for generations to come.
Pastor Jim Edwards played the role of Station Agent Sam Nelson at the Dayton Depot.
Dr. Marcel Pietrzycki, portrayed by Michael Kerr, shared his experiences on the Living Tour.
CeCe Stanger, a member of the Confederated Tribes of Umitilla Indian Reservation. portrayed Sacagawea during the celebration.
Shane Laib, Port of Columbia - Economic Development Coordinator and Sesquicentennial Committee Chair.
DAYTON - Columbia County's Sesquicentennial event drew community members, past and present, to celebrate on Saturday, October 4. The event began with the Blue Mountain Artists, who created and displayed work at Moose Creek Café, Dayton Historic Depot, and Locally Nourished.
After the opening ceremony at the Depot, neighbors shared a free "Chuckwagon" lunch by The Q BBQ. From there, guests could take a guided tour through downtown, learning about the county's past through living history vignettes.
Guests enjoyed an ice cream social on the courthouse lawn. By the courthouse steps, a tour group listened to Elisha Ping, portrayed by Chuck Reeves, long believed to be one of the "Fathers of Columbia County."
The closing ceremony was held outside the Palus Museum, where the Sesquicentennial Legacy Mural was unveiled. The painting features Chief Bones, the last official chief of the Palus tribe. The committee commissioned and donated the mural to serve as a lasting symbol of Columbia County's history, resilience, and spirit.
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