“Building the Columbia River Highway: They Said It Couldn’t Be Done” By Peg Willis; History Press, 186 pages
Happy June 1! Hard to believe that we’re half-way through 2014, but that’s the truth of it. This time of year always makes me think of taking road trips — getting out of the house, seeing the sights. Long journeys, while fun, can take a lot of planning and a lot of stamina, especially if kids and pets are involved. But sometimes short jaunts are the best. And living in the Northwest affords ample opportunity for beautiful day trips.
I love the fact that just right up the road is a jewel — the Columbia River Gorge. The first time I saw it (way back in 1993) I could hardly wrap my head around the idea of living in such lush surroundings. Recently engaged and preparing for a new life — full of trees, rivers,and rain instead of cactus, sand, and lizards — my fiance took me on a drive along the historic Columbia River Highway. In a word, I was awestruck. The natural beauty of the area is enough to impress any visitor, but the highway itself is a wonder of its own, worthy of appreciation for the fortitude and skills necessary to complete such a daunting task.
For anyone interested in the story behind the construction of the Columbia River Highway, this week’s book is worth checking out. Peg Willis, a Pacific Northwest native and former teacher, has written a thoroughly engaging history about the men — and women — who helped with the construction of the highway, bridges and iconic structures along the now historic highway.
