Neptune's Needle

City (1990 pop. 437,319; 2000 pop. 529,121), (cap.) Multnomah co., NW Oregon, on the Willamette and Columbia rivers; 45º32'N 122º39'W. The largest city in the state, it is a port of entry, a leading financial and industrial center, and an important deepwater port, with shipyards and a busy foreign trade. Mfg. includes lumber, wood prods., paper, metals, machinery, food items, textiles, clothing, computer parts, and furniture. Massive suburban growth has developed around Portland since the late 1970s, and even the central city pop. has increased. Founded in 1845, it was named for Portland, Maine. Its growth was rapid after 1850, when it served as a supply point for the Calif. goldfields, and continued with the coming of the RR (1883), the Alaska gold rush (1897-1900), and the Lewis and Clark Centennial Exposition (1905). The area is noted for its beautiful scenery, and the Columbia R. Gorge and Mt. Hood are easily accessible. Inc. 1851.

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Peter Richards