Gresham, Oregon is the states fourth largest city, at nearly 105,000 residents. The city is situated in the County of Multnomah east of Portland.
The community was originally referred to as a campground for pioneers who were going to the Willamette Valley and Portland. The city was not able to receive its status until it first established a postal office and postal code. A local business man offered his store as a post office and suggested that the city be named after an American Civil War General, Postmaster General Walter Quinton Gresham. The post office was established in 1884, and during 1905 Gresham was incorporated as a city with its very first mayor, Lewis Shattuck.
Gresham residents believe that art is an essential and inspirational part of whatever successful community. The city has attracted several artists and grown a vibrant local arts scene. A focal point of cultural activity is City Hall, with regular public art exhibitions. The local government helps the city's artists by purchasing art from local artists and providing gallery space.
Each and every year, the Gresham Art Walk features almost 100 artists from all over Oregon and southwest Washington. Tourists can enjoy live music while meeting artists and browsing locally produced pottery, paintings, photography, beadwork, glass work and textiles. Gresham's downtown has several one-of-a-kind boutiques and farmers markets. At Gresham Station shoppers have access to 50 nationally recognized shops and restaurants.
There are several outdoor activities to enjoy, like the scenic Columbia River Gorge and Mt. Hood National Forest. The Columbia Gorge National Scenic Area was formed during the Missoula floods roughly 13,000 to 15,000 years ago forming a one hundred thirty km passageway. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the following activities at the Gorge: camping, swimming, hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, birding, boating, photography, rock climbing, picnicking, windsurfing and mountain biking.