Welcome to
Caples House Museum
Overlooking the majestic Columbia River in beautiful Columbia City, Oregon, you can explore the history of the Charles G. Caples family (early Oregon pioneers) through our extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits. Our museum brings the past to life. Come visit us and discover the stories of Caples House!
A Journey Through Time
Dr. Charles Green Caples left Ohio, traveling along the Oregon Trail with his family, as a child in 1844. In 1846, his father built a log cabin along the beautiful Columbia River and founded the town of Columbia City in 1852. Charles married Lucinda McBride in 1855, received his medical training, then in 1870 built a home, washhouse / tool shed, and a barn on this beautiful site overlooking the Columbia River. They planted an orchard and garden including medical herbs. For years Dr. Charles G. Capels was the only doctor in Columbia County. His clinic and surgery were in his home. He was assisted by Lucinda as a midwife. They were known for their tireless service to others.
In 1959, the Caples' daughter, Dell Caples Houghton, bequeathed the house and its immediate surroundings to the Oregon State Society, NSDAR, for use as a museum.
Caples House Museum is listed on the U.S. National Park Service National Register of Historic Places.
