Sunday, August 23, 2015

Plaza Blocks: Elk Fountain

IMG_2138 Elk Fountain in Portland, Oregon on February 15, 2010
Elk Fountain on February 15, 2010

Probably the best known component of the Plaza Blocks, the Elk Fountain sits between them in the middle of Main Street between SW Third and Fourth Avenues.

IMG_2139 Elk Fountain in Portland, Oregon on February 15, 2010
Elk Fountain on February 15, 2010

The fountain was presented to the City of Portland by former mayor and president of the Oregon Humane Society David P. Thompson in 1900 as a drinking trough for horses and dogs.

IMG_2140 Elk Fountain in Portland, Oregon on February 15, 2010
Elk Fountain on February 15, 2010

The granite fountain was designed by architect H.G. Wright. The bronze elk statue by sculptor Roland Perry, named simply Elk, was intended as a reminder of the elk that lived in the West Hills and came into the area to feed in Portland's early years.

IMG_2143 Elk Fountain in Portland, Oregon on February 15, 2010
Elk Fountain on February 15, 2010

Historical Photos:
Elk Fountain, December 29, 1955 (UO)
Elk Fountain, July 29, 1982 (UO)

Continue to Lownsdale Square

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