In the footsteps of Donald Mackenzie

By Margaret Beilharz

Last Tuesday, July 24^th, Ben Mackenzie, the 4^th generation descendant of Donald Mackenzie, arrived with his wife and their son John’s family to be a key part of the McKenzie Summer Festival in Leaburg on Saturday. On Saturday, the McKenzie River Bicentennial’s Mobile Museum provided a place for the Mackenzie family to share stories of their famous forefather with the public at the Festival.

Having traveled from Idaho and Utah the Mackenzie’s expressed their appreciation for the scenic beauty of western Oregon and for the friendliness of the community. They were hosted by Marilyn Cross at her home near Eagle Rock. Their time here included a welcome reception at the home of Gil and Georgeanne Porter, several days on the coast, a raft trip through Marten Rapids gifted by A. Helfrich Outfitters, exploring the gardens at Belknap Hot Springs, dinner at Takoda’s, and finding souvenirs of their “McKenzie River” visit at Harbick’s Country Store.

Photo: Emily Mackenzie, one of the 6th generation of descendants of Donald Mackenzie who visited the area last week, wearing the fruits of the fur trade.

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