Many of us that grew up in Portland in the 1980s got to experience the magic that was the Portland Children’s Museum in its original, historic home in SW Portland’s Lair Hill neighborhood. This building delighted children for many years prior to the museum being relocated to the old OMSI building near the Portland Zoo. Unfortunately, with the move to its new location, the Children’s Museum lost most of its charm and it eventually closed. Portland lost a cultural icon and a much beloved destination for families.

In 2024, the original Children’s Museum sits vacant. The grand old building is in much need of repair after decades of neglect. Without considerable investment into its roof and some of the brick facade, the building is at risk of being deemed unsafe and being razed.

My hope is that by signing this petition, we can show interest in not only preserving this historic building, but also in re-establishing the Children’s Museum for the children of Portland and for generations to come!