The Tillamook County Pioneer Museum hosts a special traveling exhibit, “Launching Through the Surf: The Dory Fleet of Pacific City,” from March 20 through April 30 celebrating one of the most iconic and enduring fishing traditions on the Oregon Coast. Created by Linfield University in partnership with the Pacific City Dorymen’s Association, the exhibit explores the historical and contemporary role of the Pacific City dory fleet through stories, artifacts and photographs gathered from the community.
Drawing from interviews with more than 100 dorymen and women, Launching Through the Surf shares the voices, traditions and experiences of those who launch their boats directly from the beach into the surf. The exhibit brings together historic photographs, personal fishing gear and artifacts on loan from dory fishers, educational displays, and striking modern photography by coastal photographers Sandy Weedman and Tyrone Marshall.
For more than a century, Pacific City’s dory fleet has shaped the identity, economy, and culture of the community. This exhibit offers visitors a rare opportunity to explore the legacy of the fishers who continue to carry this tradition forward.
Museum admission required. For museum hours, admission prices, and additional information, visit tcpm.org.
Special events during the exhibit’s run include:
April 7: Sip + Shop with the Dory Heritage Center Board of Directors
Visitors are invited to stop by the Tillamook County Pioneer Museum, visit with Dory Heritage Center board members, enjoy a drink and explore the exhibit from 5-7 p.m. April 7. Museum admission is free during this event. Sip + Shop is a free monthly event hosted by the Tillamook Area Chamber of Commerce. The adventure begins at the Chamber HQ for a complimentary glass and first sip. Visitors will receive a map of all the other Tillamook businesses.
April 17: Dory Fishers — Kickin’ Sand and Story Tellin’
The Tillamook County Historical Society is sponsoring a special storytelling evening starting at 6 p.m. April 17. “Jay” Taylor III, author of “Persistent Callings,” will facilitate a panel discussion amd storytelling event with three members of the dory fleet: Ray Monroe, Steve Johnson, and Mike Sears. This event is free and open to the public, but due to limited seating, registration is required at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/dory-fisherskickin-sand-and-story-tellin-tickets-1985097626438?aff=ebdssbdestsearch
April 25: Tillamook County Pioneer Museum’s 91st birthday: Free Community Admission Day
To celebrate the Tillamook County Pioneer Museum’s 91st birthday, the museum invites the community to celebrate the occasion with free admission and treats from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 25. “Launching Through the Surf: The Dory Fleet of Pacific City” exhibit will be on display during the celebration.
Learn more about Linfield University’s “Launching Through the Surf: The Dory Fleet of Pacific City” project on DigitalCommons.
In addition to the traveling exhibition, the collection includes audio stories, photographs, images, a play and more.
View the full collection on DigitalCommons.
