A Norwegian immigrant who turned out to be one of Portland's most noted philanthropists, Simon Benson had a lot to contribute to the city, and it is only fitting that he is such an important part of the local culture today. Benson Polytechnic High School was established due to his generosity, and the city even owes its famous drinking fountains, the Benson Bubblers, to this man. The Queen Anne he had constructed in 1900 was put to many different uses after the family shifted residence in 1913, and eventually even found a place on the National Historic Register in 1983. However, when the years took a toll on the house, the Friends of Simon Benson House took it upon themselves to restore it, a task they have excelled at. The house was relocated to its present space in the South Park Blocks at Portland State University in 2000, serving as the visitor center and alumni association.
Camp Withycombe was established as a training camp in 1909 and later expanded as headquarters for the National Guard, a central supply point, a rifle range and training center during World War I.The Oregon Military Department takes charge of this more than 77 acre site that still serves as a training facility, supply depot, and equipment repair facility for the National Guard; the rifle range, however, is no longer operational. Located at the foot of Mount Talbert, the site contains historic military structures and relics.
Named for the city of Albina and one of its beloved police officers, this old neighborhood park was acquired in 1940. Known most commonly as Albina Park, it was renamed in 1947 when the community came together to honor former officer Mike Lillis. The park boasts a softball and football field, and playground. Picnic tables are available, although you cannot rent the space for group parties. Perfect for an afternoon nap with shady old growth trees offering protection from the sun. There are no fees to use the park.
The St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church is a historic church which predates the current city of Portland itself. Founded by a community of Italian settlers, the church is now a part of the Archdiocese of Portland which is in of the oldest of such institutions in the USA. Constructed in the late 19th Century, this Oregon heritage building has a beautiful red brick exterior and stained glass windows which were donated to the church over the years.
An environmental preserve, the 213 acres (86 hectares) in this city park include two lakes. The natural areas are primitively developed, leaving the habitat in tact while providing both hiking and cycling trails. The two lakes have divided duties, Smith Lake's water level is maintained for canoeing and fishing while Bybee Lake to the north naturally watches the tide ebb and flow to protect the home of the area's wild residents. There is no fee to use the park.