A Look at Lost Portland, Oregon

Portland is a city that wears its quirkiness with pride—but beneath the murals, microbreweries, and modern skyline lies a layered history that many never get to see. In Lost Portland, Oregon, author and historian Val C. Ballestrem takes readers on a fascinating tour through the city’s lost landmarks and fading architectural heritage.

Ballestrem, a respected local historian and education manager at the Architectural Heritage Center, masterfully combines historical storytelling with rare photographs and archival material to bring the city’s past to life. The book highlights more than just demolished buildings—it paints a picture of a Portland that once was, from long-forgotten theaters and hotels to neighborhoods forever changed by urban renewal, highway construction, and shifting social priorities.

Each chapter serves as a window into a different piece of Portland’s past. You’ll read about the grand Marquam Grand Opera House, the razed South Portland neighborhood, and other vanished spaces that were once cornerstones of the community. Ballestrem doesn’t just recount facts—he tells stories, making Lost Portland, Oregon a compelling read for anyone curious about how cities evolve, what gets preserved, and what slips away.

This book is ideal for history buffs, architecture lovers, and Portland residents who want to better understand the city’s ever-changing landscape. It’s also a call to think about preservation—not as nostalgia, but as a way to honor the character and complexity of a city’s identity.

Why Read Lost Portland, Oregon?

Discover hidden stories behind well-known neighborhoods

Learn about the city’s architectural history and changing skyline

Explore thought-provoking discussions on preservation and progress

Whether you’re a lifelong Portlander or a newcomer intrigued by the city’s roots, Lost Portland, Oregon is a beautifully curated journey into the heart of what once was—and a reminder of why remembering matters.

Available now: https://amzn.to/3FH8OIY

You may also visit our bookstore for more books: https://vanportoregon.com/amazon-bookstore/