Portland Police Sunshine Division, 1938

The Portland Police Reserve was formed in 1922 by mayor George Baker as a  group of civilian volunteers to serve in emergency situations. They ended up responding mostly to widespread poverty, delivering food to citizens in need. They earned the name “George Baker’s Sunshine Boys” for the hope they brought. In 1938 they moved into this vacant precinct station at 39 N. Russell St.

(City of Portland Archives)

N Williams & Russell, 1937

Several months ago we looked at the intersection of N. Williams and Russell looking north in 1937. This is the same intersection, same year (probably same day), looking south.

(City of Portland Archives)

N Williams & Russell, 1937

You could get a Coca-Cola or a bowl of chili at the Nite Owl Cafe at the corner of N. Williams and Russell in 1937. None of this exists today.

(City of Portland Archives)