Hear the rest of the dory in Tillamook
“Launching and Landing” by Tyrone Marshall
Both purposeful and picturesque, the dory boats that launch from the beach in Pacific City have added local charm to the area for generations. Learn more about this treasured tradition at the Tillamook County Pioneer Museum, in the traveling exhibit “Launching Through the Surf: The Dory Fleet of Pacific City.”
Created by Linfield University in partnership with the Pacific City Dorymen’s Association, the exhibit highlights one of the Oregon Coast’s most enduring fishing traditions through stories, artifacts and photographs gathered from the community.
Drawing on interviews with more than 100 dorymen and women, the exhibit shares the voices and experiences of those who launch their boats directly from the beach into the surf. Displays include historic photographs, personal fishing gear and artifacts on loan from dory fishers, educational materials and contemporary photography by Sandy Weedman and Tyrone Marshall.
For more than a century, Pacific City’s dory fleet has played a central role in shaping the community’s identity, economy and culture. The exhibit offers visitors an opportunity to explore the legacy of the fishers who continue to carry on that tradition.
The exhibit will be on display through April 30, with several special events planned during the run. A Sip + Shop event with members of the Dory Heritage Center board will be held Tuesday, April 7, from 5 to 7 pm, with free museum admission during the event. The monthly gathering, hosted by the Tillamook Area Chamber of Commerce, begins at the chamber office with a complimentary drink and includes a map of participating businesses.
A storytelling event, “Dory Fishers - Kickin’ Sand and Story Tellin’” is set for Friday, April 17, at 6 pm. Facilitated by author Jay Taylor III, the evening will feature a panel discussion with dory fleet members Ray Monroe, Steve Johnson and Mike Sears. The event is free, though registration is required.
The museum will also celebrate its 91st birthday with a free community admission day on Saturday, April 25, from 10 am to 4 pm, with treats available for visitors.
Museum admission is required during regular exhibit hours. For hours, admission prices and more information, go to tcpm.org.