[July 9, 1856] Coastal Trail of Tears– march of Tecumtum followers, Chetco and Pistol Rivers up the coast to Coast reservation. They arrive about August 9th. (Palmer letter of 7 3 1856)

In the early hours of June 20, 1856, at 2am, the Steamship Columbia dropped anchor in the Fort Orford harbor. Later that day, approximately 670 of our ancestors were forcibly loaded onto the Columbia, a ship designed to hold only 100 passengers.

This day, known as Juneteenth, symbolizes the triumph of freedom and the enduring spirit of resilience among African Americans. It has grown from local commemorations in Texas to a nationally recognized day of reflection, education, and celebration. Juneteenth is a time to honor the struggles and achievements of African Americans, acknowledging their critical contributions to the nation’s history and the ongoing fight for equality and justice.

June 9, 1851: Captain William Tichenor of the Steamship Sea Gull landed 9 men to establish a white settlement, leading to a battle against the Quo-to-ma Indians at what is now known as Battle Rock.