Hill’s Harmony Hill

In 1924 Colonel Hill of the military academy wanted a new name for Rocky Butte, where the new school was soon to be located. The Oregonian printed an article saying “…he wants it with meaning, neat and not gaudy. “Hill’s Hill” would be full of euphony until some careless one forgot the dots and wrote it just as full, but scandalous.”

Offering a prize of $25 caught the attention of many Portlanders and there were 2,046 suggestions submitted to this Rocky Butte renaming contest! One of the most popular ideas was of “historical names from Indian lore”, recounting that “One pioneer felt that the fact that the Butte was used as a look-out by the Indians as the guarded the Columbia River should determine the name. Hundreds of contestants expressed the idea that the trend of the city was in the direction of that promontory, and that it was a matter of public interest that the name be credited to Portland.”

The article goes on to say: “Harmony Hill was deemed appropriate, by one who called attention to the hospital and sanctuary which will be near by. He felt that the three great forces of human life – education, religious zeal and philanthropy – should suggest that name”

This was not the first time Rocky Butte had almost been renamed. An Oregonian article from August 13, 1908 titled “Call It Lookout Mountain” says:

The united East Side Push Clubs voted last night to call Rocky Butte, north of Montavilla, Lookout Mountain in honor of General Joe Hooker, who lived in Portland before the war and before he became known as “Fighting” Joe Hooker.  Joeseph Buchtel, who once owned this butte, set forth its advantages as a public park and urged it upon the consideration of the Park Commission.  He said that it is one of the most commanding elevations outside of Council Crest in Portland’s suburb….From the west side there is a gentle incline to the top where there is considerable level ground.  On the east side of the drop down is almost perpendicular, from which rock was taken for many years.  Mr. Buchtel contends that this elevation ought to be included in the general park system of Portland  He said that the elevation resembled Lookout Mountain where General Hooker fought above the clouds…

The first use of the name “Rocky Butte” in newsprint was in the year 1881, when the landmark was mentioned during a new railway construction. It seems that the name Rocky Butte has been steadfast despite attempts to officially change the title.

If you were offered $25, what would you suggest re-naming the Butte?