See The Life Of Oregon's 19th Century Fur Trappers

NEWBERG, OR — Park rangers at Champoeg State Heritage Area south of Newberg will host a historical reenactment this month depicting the life of fur trappers in antebellum Oregon, circa 1825. The free event will take place at the Riverside day-use area.

From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 15, actors dressed in pioneer clothing will reportedly show the "often harsh life endured by fur trappers in the 19th century," according to Park Ranger Dan Klug. As part of the reenactment, attendees will get to learn all about a fur trappers' typical day, as well as trapping techniques and skills needed to survive in the Oregon wilds.

Overall, Klug said, visitors should come away from the event with a much greater understanding of what life was like for fur trappers working for the Hudson Bay Company in the Champoeg area in 1825.

Between 10 and 15 tents will be setup across a 75-yard campsite, with various actors/historians sharing their knowledge and covering myriad aspects of early 19th century living.

While the event itself is free, a day-use parking pass for the Champoeg State Heritage Area is $5. The park is readily accessible for all, even wheelchairs, Klug said. The event will also be held rain or shine, he said.

The park will host another reenactment event on the first Saturday in October, with actors this time depicting farmstead life for settlers in the area during the late 19th century. That event will go from 12 to 4 p.m. Oct. 6.

For more information, including park maps and other brochures, visit OregonStateParks.org.

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Images via Oregon Parks & Recreation Department