Building the Columbia River Highway: They Said It Couldn't Be Done

This book is the culmination of over 10 years of research into the origins of the Historic Columbia River Highway—referred to at the time of its completion as “The King of Roads” and “A Poem in Stone.” It was the first scenic highway in the nation and boasts several engineering firsts as well. Meet Sam Hill, the mover and shaker, Simon Benson, John Yeon, and a number of others who were instrumental in the highway’s construction—and most of all—Samuel Lancaster, the polio survivor who turned modern engineering on its ear to create this miracle road. While well-researched and documented, the book is an easy and entertaining read. This book is written by long-time member and local author Peg Willis.


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