Ewing Young Day walk event Feb. 9

A group called Friends of Ewing Young Park invites anyone who is interested to participate in a community walk at 1 p.m. on Sunday, February 9 at Ewing Young Park, in observance of Ewing Young Day. The one-mile loop walk will begin and end at the park’s covered pavilion. Participants can enjoy an engaging stroll highlighting the legacy of Ewing Young—a pioneering figure in Oregon history—while also learning about plans to enhance local trails and green spaces. 

Event leaders Dennis Wiley, chairman of the CPRD Trail Advisory Committee and retired Champoeg State Park historian, and Matt Dolphin, member of the previous trails advisory committee, will guide the walk. Both bring a wealth of experience in trail development and conservation, promising an insightful and inspiring afternoon.

"Trails connect us to our history, our neighbors, and the natural world," said Matt Dolphin. "We’re excited to share stories of Ewing Young and showcase the future potential of trails in the Chehalem Valley."

This event is free and open to all ages. Participants are encouraged to dress for the weather and wear comfortable walking shoes.

In 2009, the Oregon State Legislature declared February 9th, each year, would be known as Ewing Young Day. Ewing Young was a prominent pioneer, fur trapper, and entrepreneur in the early 19th century who played a significant role in Oregon’s history. He established a cattle business in the Willamette Valley, bringing the first significant herd of cattle to the region, which helped sustain early settlers. Young’s untimely death in 1841, without a will or heirs, prompted the creation of Oregon’s first probate court and highlighted the need for a formal government, influencing the region’s early governance. The Newberg area honors his legacy as a key figure in Oregon’s development and a symbol of pioneer resilience.

For more information about this event, visit EwingYoungPark.org.