The Columbia River Maritime Museum in Astoria, Oregon, is preparing to welcome a major new exhibit as the historic fireboat David Campbell is moved to its permanent public home.
The vessel is due to arrive in Astoria by barge before being lifted by crane and placed in an outdoor display area at the museum. According to Caroline Wuebben, the museum’s Director of External Affairs, the installation will allow visitors to learn more about the fireboat’s role in protecting Portland’s waterways.
Named in honor of Portland Fire Chief David Campbell, who died in the line of duty in 1911, the fireboat was launched in 1927 for Portland Fire and Rescue. During its service, the David Campbell was capable of pumping more than 12,000 gallons of water per minute onto fires, including a five-alarm fire at the Red Lion Hotel along the Columbia River in 2012.
The David Campbell served Portland for nearly a century before retiring, with the vessel later placed in drydock in 2025 ahead of its transfer to the museum.
“They were trying to find a place for it to have a forever home versus scrapping it,” Wuebben said. “After conversations with Portland Fire the museum agreed to take the donation of the boat, so it was given to us by Portland Fire in an effort to keep it in the area so people could see the boat, experience the boat and understand the history.”
Once installed, the outdoor exhibit will be free to view. Visitors will also be able to climb aboard and tour the interior of the vessel for a nominal fee.
“It’s cool to have something else we can offer to the public that they don’t have to pay admission to experience,” Wuebben said.
The move will affect access around the museum. Parking east of Mariners Hall and around the Barbey Maritime Center will be closed from July 6 to July 22.
The Barbey Maritime Center, Warnock Commons and Model Boat Pond will also be closed during parts of the work, while boat rentals, education programs and select club meetings will be paused. Portions of the Riverwalk will be closed to pedestrians from July 7 to 9 and July 13 to 15, with detour routes available.
