Historians face off on Pillar Rock history

It will be historian vs. historian when Irene Martin and Mike Rees, both of Skamokawa, present different but complimentary viewpoints of the history of the Pillar Rock area on the lower Columbia River.

Pillar Rock has been a navigational landmark on the river throughout human history. From this area, the Lewis and Clark party may or may not have been able to see the "Ocian in View."

From its early trading days, to the cannery period and beyond, the historians will talk about how this area played an important role in the evolution of life and commerce on the lower Columbia.

Martin is a noted area author, scholar, historian and archivist for the Friends of Skamokawa. She has made an extensive study of the Lewis and Clark expedition journals, particularly with regard to the Lower Columbia region.

Rees has been a student of Lewis and Clark history for many years. He recently published an article showing scientifically that William Clark could not have seen the actual Pacific Ocean from Pillar Rock.

Pillar Rock: Facts and Fables, will take place on September 27, 2 p.m., at Redmen Hall, 1394 West State Route 4, in Skamokawa. For more information, phone 360-795-3007.