Oregonian 1913 Ad Talks Up Hillsboro’s Benefits

The Morning Oregonian May 24, 1913

In 1913 the Oregonian featured an advertisement on the charming little town of Hillsboro, Oregon. The ad was run by the Smith- Willoughby Company, promoting an excursion limited to just 400 people. The ticketed event required anyone attending to reserve a seat on the train that was departing from Portland and heading to Hillsboro. Upon arrival, those in the group were shown around the town and offered building lots for $90 dollars.

To quote the ad:

“Fortunes have been made in City property - fortunes are still being made. Our Hillsboro property is the opportunity of a lifetime…”

Photos of the Washington County Court House and New High School were featured.

“Excursion limited to 400, with train l having Front and Jefferson in Portland at 10:30 A.M. There will be music on the train and on the tract. Lunch will be served in Hillsboro—we take you around the city in our machines and entertain you to the best of our ability.”

So many fortunes have been made in Hillsboro, Oregon. But can you imagine coming at that point in time and buying some lots as described in the central downtown part of the City for $90 each? It would be very interesting to find out where these lots were. We will work on that next! For now, we hope you enjoyed this read and promotional piece for our City!