This collection and exhibit features the leatherworking machinery and tools of an industry integrally tied to the history of the west. From Irish immigrant roots dating to 1857, the George Lawrence Company of Portland grew to become a famed icon in saddle making. The artistry and skill of 140 years in operation is conveyed in this unique collection, funded by The James F. & Marion L. Miller Foundation, the Oregon Cultural Trust, and the Lawrence family.

 

In 2010, Columbia Gorge Discovery Center, received a massive donation of items from the George Lawrence Company, from William “Bill” Lawrence, the direct descendent and grandson of the founder. We have an exhibition featuring the tools used for manufacture of the products, and have a few catalogs on display. Many of these catalogs were the personal reference catalog used at the sales counter by the company’s owners and salesmen, and may include hand-written notes about products and sales information.

 

To view a list of our George Lawrence Company Sales Catalogs, click here. 
 

For more questions, contact Collections@gorgediscovery.org