Simon Benson's legacy is a cross-section of Oregon's development. Born in 1851, Benson was a Norwegian immigrant who became a lumber magnate who used his wealth and influence to give back to his adopted state and country. The Benson Bridge, Benson Hotel, Benson Polytechnic High School, the Simon Benson House and the Benson bubblers are familiar landmarks for Portlanders. Learn more about the historic figure behind the name and how his contributions have shaped our region. Historian Sig Unander goes into detail about Benson's role in building the Historic Columbia Gorge Highway, the World Forestry Center, and more.

Sig Unander is a writer, historian and public speaker from Portland. He began his career in broadcast journalism at media outlets in New Mexico, Minnesota, and Georgia and as a freelance writer. Later, he worked in Spanish-language media, edited a business magazine for Hispanic professionals and served as writer and historian with a documentary film production company. He has spoken at hundreds of venues and lectured at universities in the United States and the Philippines. He is currently working on a narrative nonfiction book about Claire Phillips, a World War II heroine and Medal of Freedom recipient.

Enjoy 15% off your hotel stay on History Pub nights! Show your ticket at check-in.

These events are open to everyone interested in Pacific Northwest history, and beyond! Often co-sponsored by local or state historical and civic organizations, we bring you experts, scholars, first-person experiencers, historians and documentaries expounding on topics from indigenous history to the birth of Portland, early explorers to hop growing, and on and on! It's like being back in the classroom - except this time you get to settle into comfortable seats and enjoy a drink or two with dinner while you listen and learn.

This event is eligible for a History Pub Stamp