A Gift In Need Is A Gift Indeed

In 1923, Lloyd Frank of the Meier & Frank Department Store purchased a 63-acre tract of land on Palatine Hill in southwest Portland. Frank hired Herman Brookman to design the estate. Brookman, who had studied English manor houses, designed the majority of the estate, including the home and terraced gardens. The McHolland Brothers construction company completed the Tudor-style house in 1926. The flagpole was installed most likely in 1924 when construction on the gardens and estate began.

1959 flagpole 2015 flagpole

The flagpole stood tall for almost a century, taking place at a premier location – right in the center of Mount Hood when looking from the Manor House. The view is absolutely breathtaking and awesome. It wasn’t until new flags were ordered that engineers noticed that the base of the flagpole was not structurally sound and in the worst case scenario, it could fall. The flagpole was promptly removed and the spot, where the flagpole once held a steadfast position, stood empty throughout the COVID pandemic and much longer.

Due to the cost of removing the old base, installation of a new base and the cost of the flagpole itself, there were no plans to reinstall the flagpole, even with the College’s recent Lower Estate Gardens redesign. Plans to reinstall the flagpole stalled until a law alumni, who is passionate about flagpoles, came through. When the donor heard that the College needed a flagpole at its premier location, the donor stepped up to make a gift to install a new flagpole. The gift is a unique double-header. Not only does it fill a need at Lewis & Clark, but it is also an overdue tribute to his friend and former law school classmate, who succumbed to ALS disease. The flagpole will be dedicated in memory of Gary L. Baker, ALS Warrior, Law Class of 1968.

The flagpole project would not have happened without the generous gift, specifically for the installation and purchase of a new flagpole. Thanks to the donor’s expertise on flagpoles and his attention to detail by shepherding the flagpole selection process, Lewis & Clark College will, once again, see the resurgence of the flagpole situated at its rightful place. Lewis & Clark College appreciates this much-needed gift for all to enjoy for hopefully a century or more! Stay tuned for a new photo of the flagpole, which will be displayed after February 2025.