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La Center

In the 1870s, La Center was an animated business center and head of navigation on the East Fork of the Lewis River. In late summer, the regular schedules of the river steamers Mascot and Walker, paddle-wheeling to Portland, were often interrupted by low water. Passengers and freight were transferred to scows, which were poled up the river or towed by horses along the bank. The picturesque transportation of the pioneer age vanished with the arrival of railroads and highways; La Center lost importance and lapsed into a small village which functions today as a retail market for a scattered farming district.

Today visitors can enjoy an abundance of wildlife and outdoor activities in La Center’s rolling hills, unspoiled wetlands and city parks.

Points of Interest Points of Interest icon

La Center Wetlands Stewardship Park

The La Center Wetlands Stewardship Park is home to Canadian geese and tundra swans taking a rest on their journey along the Pacific Flyway.

Sternwheeler Park

Sternwheeler Park is an outdoor amphitheater that hosts bands, concerts and special events. To the north of town is the Salishan Vineyards, makers of celebrated Pinot Noirs, Chardonnays and dry Rieslings.

John Pollock’s Grave

The grave, lying at the edge of the homesite, is all that remains of this early pioneer, and cousin of President James Polk. Pollock (1824-1868) was commissioned by Polk as an Native American Agent for the Oregon Territory, and later was a member of the Territorial Legislature. Deeply involved in civic, legal, and business activities, he was thought to have been considered a leading nominee for Washington’s first governor, but died unexpectedly of pneumonia.