Thanks to Facebook, I know that the Oregon City Optimist Club is participating in a car show today on Main Street, Oregon City, Oregon. That little bit of information prompted me to learn more, so I clicked on a link that took me to the flyer advertising the 2nd Annual Cruise to Historic Downtown Oregon City (right).
Okay, there are cars, sponsors, free parking and admission for spectators, and my goodness, what is that thing in the middle of the page? Is it a restaurant? Since I have never been to Oregon City, I had to find out!
According to the Oregon City Public Works Department, that structure is a municipal elevator. Oregon City is one of four cities in the world that has such an elevator. "Elevator Street" connects the lower city to the upper bluff and is the only vertical street in North America. It was built in 1954 and carries over 120,000 riders each year.
At the top, the elevator lets out onto historic Main Street, location of the Annual Downtown Car Show. And now, thanks to an Optimist Club activity, you know a little bit of Oregon City and elevator trivia. Click here to read more.
Optimist Clubs are well known for supporting the spirit of community. Participating in car shows and highlighting the uniqueness of our cities and culture are part of the fun of belonging. Why not join an Optimist Club as a way to give to your community and to yourself today? Click here to find out how to be an Optimist.