Multnomah County Poor Farm - Edgefield
![Poor Farm Planting Map A map showing how crops, gardens, and animal enclosures were arranged at the Multnomah County Poor Farm in 1938. Includes outlines of buildings and structures.](https://multco-web7-psh-files-usw2.s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/s3fs-public/styles/small/s3/FarmPlanting1938.jpg?itok=GzdTQ-8K)
Over the next 50 years, the Poor Farm in Troutdale expanded to 345 acres. In the mid-20th century, farming operations waned. The institution’s name changed several times. By 1964, the facility was operating as the Edgefield Manor nursing home. Edgefield housed residents until it closed in 1982. The property remained vacant for several years, during which it fell into neglect and became a target for vandalism. In 1990, local hospitality chain McMenamins purchased and restored the property. It now serves as an entertainment and lodging complex. To learn more about the Poor Farm, look no further than local historian Sharon Nesbit, the authoritative source on Edgefield History.
Treasure Hunt Bonus! The planting arrangement map hangs on the wall in the main building of McMenamins Edgefield. If you find it, send us a photo @MultcoArchives on social media.
Next Stop:
This is the end of the inner leg of the tour. Either continue on, or save the outer leg of the tour for another day, beginning with:
Historic Columbia River Highway
Get There from Here by:
Please note: ODOT has implemented access changes to the waterfall corridor this summer including the need for a permit. Please check before you set out to make the appropriate arrangements for your journey.