The Oregonian: A Legacy of Journalism in the Pacific Northwest

For over 176 years, The Oregonian has served as a cornerstone of news and information for the Portland region and the broader Pacific Northwest. Founded in 1850, the publication has evolved from its early weekly roots into a modern multi-platform media entity, navigating the shifting tides of technology, ownership, and journalistic excellence.

From the era of manual printing presses to the digital age of OregonLive.com, the history of The Oregonian is a reflection of the changing landscape of American media. Today, owned by Advance Publications and published by the Oregonian Media Group, the organization continues to provide essential reporting through its daily broadsheet and digital presence.

Ramage press used to print the first Oregonian

Key Facts

Founded: 1850
Headquarters: 1500 SW First Avenue, Portland, Oregon
Current Editor: Laura Gunderson
Digital Platform: OregonLive.com
Ownership: Advance Publications
Format: Daily broadsheet newspaper

The Evolution of Printing and Infrastructure

The early years of The Oregonian were defined by the mechanical advancements of the printing industry. In its infancy, the paper relied on the Ramage press to produce its early editions.

The Weekly Oregonian front page on March 19, 1859

As demand grew, so did the technology. In 1862, the paper transitioned to its first steam press, a significant upgrade that allowed for more efficient production. This press remained in service until 1871, after which it was utilized by the Hillsboro Argus until at least 1911.

First steam press used by the Oregonian, installed in 1862 (more than a year after the advent of a daily edition), and used until 1871. Subsequently used by the Hillsboro Argus until at least 1911.[13]

The physical footprint of the newspaper has also undergone dramatic changes. The 1892 Oregonian Building served as the paper's home for decades until its demolition in 1950. Later, the organization occupied a prominent building at 1320 SW Broadway from 1948 until 2014. In July 2014, the headquarters moved to a 40,000-square-foot space in the Crown Plaza office building at 1500 SW First Avenue.

The Oregonian Building of 1892 was the paper's home until 1948. It was demolished in 1950.

The Oregonian Building of 1948, which occupies a full city block in downtown Portland, housed the paper's headquarters from 1948 to 2014.

The production of the physical paper also saw a major shift in 2015 when the company's longtime printing plant in the Goose Hollow neighborhood closed following the decision to outsource printing. The smaller building of that complex was demolished in late 2018.

The paper's longtime printing plant, in the Goose Hollow neighborhood west of downtown, closed in 2015 after the paper's printing was outsourced. The smaller of the complex's two buildings (pictured) was demolished in late 2018.

Leadership and Journalistic Excellence

Throughout its history, The Oregonian has been shaped by influential editors and publishers. One notable era was the Scott era, led by Harvey W. Scott, whose presence was central to the paper during the late 19th century.

Harvey W. Scott as he appeared in the 1870s

In the late 20th century, the paper reached new milestones in representation and recognition. In 1987, William A. Hilliard was named editor, becoming the paper's first African-American editor after a 35-year career with the publication. The paper's commitment to high-quality reporting was further cemented by winning the Pulitzer Prize. Notably, in 2006, editorial writers Doug Bates and Rick Attig were awarded the Pulitzer Prize for Editorial Writing for their coverage of the conditions at the Oregon State Hospital.

Modern Era: Digital Transition and Format Changes

As the media landscape shifted toward digital consumption, The Oregonian embraced new formats. The launch of OregonLive.com in 1997 marked a significant step in its digital evolution. The company also manages several targeted publications, including Explore the Pearl, Homes+Gardens Northwest, Mix, and Ultimate Northwest, catering to specific regional interests and demographics.

Go-bins in The Oregonian newsroom are filled with boots, hardhats, gear, and jackets for reporters covering wildfires at a moment's notice.

In recent years, the paper has navigated the complexities of the digital economy, including the implementation of a web paywall to support its journalism. While the print edition has seen changes—such as moving to a four-day home delivery schedule—the paper has also maintained its presence in the streets through vending boxes.

A newly redesigned and installed street vending box for The Oregonian (black) after the paper became a tabloid on April 2, 2014, along with a Portland Tribune box (green)

The publication continues to adapt, recently returning to a broadsheet format to enhance its features, puzzles, and comics for its readers.

Postcard of the new home of The Oregonian, corner of 6th & Jefferson

Summary of Publication Details

The Oregonian at a Glance
Category	Details
Type	Daily newspaper
Format	Broadsheet
Owner	Advance Publications
Average Print Circulation	29,325
Website	oregonlive.com

Frequently Asked Questions

Who owns The Oregonian?

The Oregonian is owned by Advance Publications.

What is the digital home of The Oregonian?

The newspaper's digital content and web portal can be found at OregonLive.com.

Has The Oregonian won any major awards?

Yes, the paper has won Pulitzer Prizes, including the 2006 Pulitzer Prize for Editorial Writing awarded to Doug Bates and Rick Attig.

Where is the headquarters located?

The headquarters is located at 1500 SW First Avenue, Portland, Oregon 97201.

How many staff writers does the publication employ?

The publication employs a staff of 288 full-time and 75 part-time writers.