Historical Background and Origins
Community Vision and Early Efforts
The Oregon Holocaust Memorial was born out of the vision of Holocaust survivors and their descendants who settled in Oregon after World War II. In 1994, these individuals formed the Oregon Holocaust Survivors Refugees and Families Committee (OHSRAF) to advocate for a permanent public memorial that would honor those lost, educate future generations, and provide a space for reflection. Their efforts paralleled a national movement among American cities to create Holocaust memorials as public educational tools, particularly as the survivor generation aged. (Oregon Jewish Museum and Center for Holocaust Education, PDXScholar)
Site Selection and Civic Support
In 1995, the Portland City Council unanimously approved a site in Washington Park—a space chosen for its accessibility, beauty, and symbolism as a community gathering place. The Oregon Holocaust Memorial Coalition (OHMC), including survivors, civic leaders, and organizations, was established to oversee the memorial’s development and ensure it represented the experiences of all groups persecuted during the Holocaust. (Portland.gov, Walsh Construction)
Design and Symbolism
The memorial’s design, developed by artists Tad Savinar and Paul Sutinen, landscape architects Marlene Salon, John Warner, and Marianne Zarkin, typographer John Laursen, and historian Marshall Lee, is rich with symbolism:
- Cobblestone Circle Evokes a European town square where Jewish families were gathered before deportation. A stone bench and wrought-iron gate offer a contemplative space.
- Bronze Artifacts Scattered shoes, glasses, suitcases, and other personal belongings symbolize lives interrupted and the abruptness of displacement.
- Railroad Tracks Granite bars embedded in the cobblestone path represent the trains that transported millions to ghettos and camps.
- History Wall Stone panels with succinct Holocaust history and survivor quotes provide context and personal connection.
- Soil Vault Panel Contains soil and ashes brought from Auschwitz-Birkenau, Bełżec, Chelmno, Majdanek, Treblinka, and Sobibor, forging a direct link to the sites of genocide.
- Central Pillar Stands above the soil vault, marking the journey’s end and symbolizing resilience and hope.
(Wikipedia, LetsRoam, Portland.gov)
Dedication, Stewardship, and Educational Mission
The Oregon Holocaust Memorial was officially dedicated on August 29, 2004, after a decade of advocacy and planning. Its stewardship transitioned from the Oregon Holocaust Resource Center to the Oregon Jewish Museum and Center for Holocaust Education (OJMCHE), which maintains the site and leads educational programming.
Education is central to the memorial’s mission. Through survivor testimonies, historical panels, and guided tours, the site fosters empathy, combats indifference, and encourages active remembrance. Annual events like Yom HaShoah (Holocaust Remembrance Day) and school visits ensure the memorial remains a living classroom for all ages.
(Oregon Jewish Museum and Center for Holocaust Education, Travel Portland)
Inclusivity and Community Impact
While centered on Jewish experiences, the memorial also acknowledges Roma, people with disabilities, LGBTQ+ individuals, and political dissidents persecuted during the Holocaust, reflecting its broader historical scope. Community support for the project, despite some land-use concerns, demonstrated Portland’s commitment to public remembrance and inclusivity.
(PDXScholar)
The memorial’s integration into Washington Park alongside other cultural sites strengthens its role as a cornerstone of Portland’s civic and educational life.
Visitor Information
Location
- Address Intersection of SW Washington Way and Wright Avenue, Washington Park, Portland, Oregon
(komoot.com)
Visiting Hours & Admission
- Hours Open daily from dawn to dusk (Washington Park hours are generally 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM).
- Admission Free; no tickets or reservations required.
Accessibility
- Fully wheelchair and stroller accessible via paved paths. Benches are available, and the site is designed for visitors with mobility challenges.
Getting There & Parking
- Public Transit Served by TriMet bus lines and MAX Light Rail (Washington Park station is nearby).
- Parking Metered parking is available in Washington Park; it can fill up during peak times, so public transit is recommended for convenience. (ohm.edmethods.com, komoot.com)
Guided Tours & Special Events
- Guided tours and educational programs are available through OJMCHE and should be booked in advance.
- Annual commemorations and lectures are held, especially around Yom HaShoah. (OJMCHE)
Nearby Portland Historical Sites
Combine your visit with:
- Portland Japanese Garden
- International Rose Test Garden
- Oregon Zoo
- Pittock Mansion
- Portland Art Museum
Practical Tips for Your Visit
- Best Time Spring and summer for garden blooms; early morning or late afternoon for quiet reflection.
- Duration 30–60 minutes is recommended to fully absorb the memorial.
- Etiquette Maintain respectful silence; supervise children; photography is allowed but should be discreet.
- Remembrance Flowers or small stones may be left as tokens.
- Restrooms Available in Washington Park (seasonal availability; check park maps).
- Pets Dogs on leash are allowed in Washington Park, but not inside the memorial area unless they are service animals. (usa-artmuseum.worldorgs.com)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the visiting hours?
The memorial is open daily from dawn to dusk (typically 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM).
Is there an admission fee or ticket required?
No, admission is free and no tickets are required.
Is the memorial accessible?
Yes, it is fully accessible by wheelchair and stroller.
Are guided tours available?
Yes, through the Oregon Jewish Museum and Center for Holocaust Education by appointment.
Where can I park?
Metered parking is available in Washington Park; public transit is recommended during busy periods.
Can I combine a visit to the memorial with the museum?
Yes, the OJMCHE is a short drive or transit ride away and is recommended for a deeper educational experience.
Are pets allowed?
Only service animals are allowed in the memorial area.
Discover More
The Oregon Holocaust Memorial stands as one of Portland’s most moving and meaningful historical sites. Through its symbolic design, educational mission, and integration within Washington Park, it invites visitors to reflect on the Holocaust’s enduring lessons about tolerance, resilience, and the value of human dignity. By visiting, participating in programs, or supporting the Oregon Jewish Museum and Center for Holocaust Education, you help preserve history and promote a more compassionate society.
For enhanced experiences, downloadable guides, and updates on events, download the Audiala app, follow OJMCHE on social media, and explore related Portland historical sites. Make the Oregon Holocaust Memorial a focal point of your cultural journey in Portland.
