Fort Astoria Site

Employees of John Jacob Astor’s Pacific Fur Company traveling aboard the Tonquin made land at the mouth of the Columbia River, where they built Fort Astoria in 1811. The fort served as their trade depot for furs, primarily highly prized beaver pelts, and was influential in establishing American claims to the land. A small park with a recreated stockade building is enhanced by a mural serving as a backdrop. The town of Astoria, Oregon, at the western end of the Lewis and Clark Trail, is known for its Victorian homes set amid acres of green hills and fields. The river winds through the landscape. Astoria is a port of call for cruise ships, and is home to the Columbia River Maritime Museum, featuring one of the nation's finest displays of model ships and nautical artifacts. Browse the waterfront shops, ride the 1913 trolley, and explore the city.