Howdy Jackson Cousins! The Jackson Family western reunion seems to be gathering to hit the trail. Responses came in from the first publication and mailing were really encouraging. Donna and John are guessing that there may be around 125 attending the gathering at the Hahn farm on the first Sunday in August. If you haven't responded or know of someone who wants to come, the barn door is still open.
We are very privileged to be able to hold this picnic at the last operative farm still in the family. Arlene, Shirley and Gary have been very generous in their offer. There is a nice pond and shady area down the hill for picnicking, and the hay mow has been converted for the barn dance.
Maps, directions and other details will follow in the second posting, when we will be able to give the specifics to those who have responded. The pancake breakfast on Saturday August 5, will be a chance to get acquainted. On Sunday there will be basic picnic fixin's but potluck contributions will be appreciated. The John Wesley Jackson line never seems to go away hungry, although the pie selection has been shrinking in recent years.
At the farm there is only limited camper or RV parking available for a dry camp, with no other facilities. RVs can come as early as Thursday or Friday and stay thru Monday. If you plan on camping at the farm, contact Shirley Wayne, 503-647-9834. We will try to come up with other suggestions for parking the covered wagons. Belowis the list of suggested accommodations in Hillsboro or Forest Grove, the two closest towns.
We hope to have displays showing the relationships between the families and other things of interest to stimulate getting acquainted. Nancy Jackson has asked time for a short business meeting and then we will try to keep out of each other's hair. Volunteers are also beginning to come forward and there will be plenty to do. No one on the Oregon Trail ever had to worry about bringing in portable toilets, they just kept movin on.
It has been suggested since many are coming to the reunion from different locations that we have a silent auction. So those who want to join in, bring something interesting that you'd like to share. Some suggestions of items include wines from your area, old and new books of interest, framed pictures, custom-made knife, blankets, jams and jellies, handcrafted items of household and general interest. Start your project now. It will be fun.
The auction will be done on picnic day. If you have any questions contact - Bob and Ginny Jackson, 503-648-4065.
Information on the Oregon Trail and sights between have been posted on the web page for those pioneers who are computer competent. (http://www.eg.bucknell.edu/~hyde/jackson/OregonTrail.html) Everyone who comes any distance should plan on going on to see the beautiful Oregon beaches but remember it is summer touring time.
Looking forward to seeing the wagons coming over the pass.
and
John C. Jackson
3031 Langridge Ave NW
Olympia WA 98502
furtrade@email.msn.com
Oregon trailers, this is what we've copied from a Hillsboro Chamber of Commerce publication on lodging in the area where we will be picnicking. Most are close and easily accessible from U. S. 26 which is the highway west from Portland. There are also several bed and breakfasts.
Motels
More information on the August 6, 2000 Jackson Brigade Reunion