Aurora, Oregon - Utopian Community - Pickled Pioneer's Destination

Enjoyed your story on Willie Keil [The Pickled Pioneer] in WA state, and yes, there are no pickled folks in Aurora, Oregon, where Willie's group settled.

We DO have a fantastic town with the Old Aurora Colony Museum, a five building complex telling the unique story of the only successful utopian community in 19th century West. See www.auroracolony.com and www.auroracolonymuseum.com for more info.

In 1993, during the sesquicentennial of the Oregon Trail, we sent a wagon pulled by mules from Missouri to Aurora, Oregon as a reminder of Willie's original trek across the Oregon Trail. In the wagon was a specially designed coffin with a period-dressed mannequin (of Willie), but instead of whisky, he was surrounded by information on Oregon and Aurora. The six month trip was funded through various local fundraisers. When finished, the mules and artifacts picked up along the "trail" were auctioned off and the proceeds helped buy equipment for the local fire department and finish the downtown public restroom. The wagon is now at the museum. [Karen Townsend, 03/26/2007]