Albany history

Learning more about Mr. & Mrs. Johnson

Written October 28th, 2020 by Hasso Hering

Comments: 7 responses.

There’s always more to a story, and yesterday’s piece about the Jackson County mountain named for Albany blacksmith Ben Johnson was no exception. As soon as it appeared, readers responded with additional details.

Posted in: Commentary
Tags: Albany history, Albany Masonic Cemetery, Ben and Amanda Johnson, Henderson Park, Oregon history

Just sayin’: Looks fine without the chimneys

Written January 24th, 2020 by Hasso Hering

Comments: 3 responses.

In November 2019, the Albany Landmarks Commission approved contractor Joel Dahl’s restoration of the historic Goltra House at Montgomery Street and Fourth Avenue, but members were interested in preserving a future possibility of recreating the appearance of two elaborate brick chimneys sticking out above the roof.

Posted in: Commentary
Tags: Albany history, Goltra House, Hackleman District, Joel Dahl, Landmarks Commission

The riddle of the Baker Street rails

Written January 11th, 2019 by Hasso Hering

Comments: 19 responses.

I’ve looked for clues in various archives, but so far I haven’t been able to learn why there are remnants of a railroad track buried in Baker Street downtown.

Posted in: Commentary
Tags: Albany history, Albany railroads, Baker Street rails

Buried rail: Reminder of Oregon Electric

Written April 29th, 2018 by Hasso Hering

Comments: 6 responses.

If they ever get around to repaving central Albany’s old streets, I hope they don’t tear out this rusty reminder of the city’s history in advanced — for the time — passenger rail.

Posted in: Commentary
Tags: Albany history, Fifth Avenue, Oregon Electric Railway

Hope for saving Albany Hydro

Written November 8th, 2017 by Hasso Hering

Comments: 8 responses.

Albany officials think there’s a way to keep operating the city’s electric generator while cutting back on regulatory expenses. Let’s hope they are right and Albany’s historic role in hydropower production can be continued and preserved.

Posted in: Commentary, News
Tags: Albany history, Albany hydro, Vine Street powerhouse, water power