Philip Foster, one of Oregon’s earliest pioneers, was a leader in the establishment of Oregon. His farm and home in Eagle Creek played an important part in the history of the Barlow Road, which followed the south side of Mt. Hood as an alternative to the treacherous Columbia River route.  Foster helped fund, build and operate the Barlow Road at various times between 1848 and 1865, guiding thousands of covered wagons into the Willamette Valley. The emigrants came out of the woods, through muddy ground, to find Foster’s Farm, the first farm they’d seen in Oregon. There they could rest and purchase food. It was also probably the first place in Oregon they received a home-cooked meal. Foster set up a camping site for the travelers as well.

Credits and Sources:

http://www.philipfosterfarm.com/pffwp/

Audio:

Diary Excerpts:

Ester Belle McMillan

Hanna John T. Kerns