Portland, the peaceful Rose City of Oregon, captivates visitors not only with its poetic natural beauty and slow pace of life. Hidden beneath this city lies a network of mysterious historical tunnels, holding within them fascinating stories and the marks of an old Portland. Let “Du lịch khắp thế gian” guide you to explore these unique tunnels, uncover layers of history, and experience a completely different side of this charming city.
Portland’s Tunnel Network: Historical Witness and Unsolved Mysteries
The tunnels beneath Portland are not merely architectural structures; they are a crucial part of the city’s history and development. Built in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, this network was initially created to serve commercial activities and cargo transportation. However, over time, these tunnels were gradually forgotten and faded into darkness, accompanied by mysterious tales and rumors of clandestine activities taking place underground.
From Commercial Tunnels to the Legendary “Shanghai Tunnels”
Initially, the tunnels were built to connect the port area on the Willamette River with the basements of hotels and bars in Portland’s Old Town Chinatown. The main purpose was to facilitate the transportation of goods, especially during the Prohibition era when the trade of alcoholic beverages became secretive and risky. Goods, food, and even people could be transported discreetly through these tunnels, avoiding government control and the public’s prying eyes.
Dark and mysterious underground tunnel
However, the historical truth about these tunnels gradually became mixed with word-of-mouth stories, creating a dark legend known as the “Shanghai Tunnels” or “Portland Underground.” According to rumors, this tunnel network not only served commercial purposes but was also a place for brutal human trafficking activities, especially “Shanghaiing” – a form of kidnapping and forced conscription of crew members onto ships to work on voyages across the ocean to Shanghai and other distant seaports.
Stories recount that kidnapped victims were often drugged or lured into bars located above the tunnels, then taken underground and held captive before being transferred to ships. Although the authenticity of the “Shanghaiing” stories in Portland’s tunnels is still debated, it is undeniable that they have contributed to the mystery and special attraction of this tunnel network.
Exploring Portland’s Historical Tunnels Today
Today, a portion of Portland’s historical tunnel network has been opened to visitors, offering a unique and fascinating travel experience. Tunnel tours are often organized by local historical organizations, allowing visitors to descend underground, walk through damp and dark corridors, and listen to historical and legendary stories recounted by knowledgeable guides.
Joining a tunnel exploration tour, you will have the opportunity to:
- Witness unique architecture firsthand: The tunnels are built of brick and stone, with sturdy arched ceilings and rudimentary ventilation systems. You will feel the meticulousness and construction techniques of the past, as well as the harshness of the working environment underground.
- Hear fascinating historical stories: Guides will tell you about the history of the tunnels’ formation, their role in the commercial and social activities of old Portland, as well as the mysterious and chilling stories related to the “Shanghai Tunnels.”
- Experience a sense of thrill and mystery: Stepping underground, you will feel a distinct difference from the world above. The dark, damp, and silent space will evoke curiosity and a sense of adventure and exploration.
However, it should be noted that not all tunnels are open to the public. Many sections of the tunnels have been sealed off, damaged, or are located beneath modern buildings. Therefore, participating in well-organized tours is the safest and most effective way to explore a part of history hidden beneath Portland.
Portland: More Than Just Historical Tunnels
Besides the mysterious tunnels, Portland is also a diverse and attractive city with many other interesting destinations, worthy of your time to explore.
Natural Beauty and Green Spaces
Portland is known as the “City of Roses” for its countless vibrant rose gardens, especially the Peninsula Rose Garden in Washington Park. In the summer, roses bloom everywhere, turning Portland into a romantic floral paradise.
Portland city with diverse natural landscapes
Not only roses, Portland is also surrounded by beautiful nature. The city is located between the Willamette and Columbia Rivers, offering picturesque river landscapes. A little further out, you can easily access the majestic Cascade Mountains and the poetic Pacific coast.
Within the city itself, Portland also has many green parks, creating relaxing and nature-friendly spaces. Forest Park is one of the largest urban parks in the United States, with hiking and biking trails through the forest. Laurelhurst Park, on the other hand, has a classic style, with a lake, greenery, and peaceful atmosphere.
Beauty inside Laurelhurst Park
Unique Architecture and Historical Imprints
Portland is a harmonious blend of classic and modern styles. The Old Town Chinatown still retains 19th-century architectural works, bearing strong historical and cultural imprints. Pittock Mansion on the West Hills is a magnificent Victorian architectural icon, with panoramic views of the entire city.
Classic beauty of Pittock Mansion
Besides, Portland also has no shortage of modern and unique architectural works, especially in the Pearl District – an area that was once industrial warehouses and has now been transformed into a vibrant arts and entertainment district, with art galleries, trendy restaurants, and unique shops.
Pearl District in Portland
Slow Pace of Life and Local Culture
Portland is famous for its slow pace of life, different from the noise and bustle of many other major cities in the United States. Portland residents are friendly, open, and love a life close to nature. Local culture in Portland is also very distinctive, with the strong development of street art, diverse cuisine, and a large community of craft beer enthusiasts.
Portland is suitable for those who love a slow pace of life
Conclusion
Exploring the historical tunnels in Portland is a unique journey, taking you back in time to learn about the mysterious past of this city. In addition, Portland offers many other diverse travel experiences, from fresh natural beauty, unique architecture to a slow pace of life and distinctive local culture. If you are looking for a peaceful yet interesting destination in the United States, Portland is definitely a great choice. Come and discover this charming Rose City for yourself, and don’t forget to take the time to dive deep underground and explore the mysterious historical tunnels.