I have had the opportunity to spend some time in Silverton, Oregon lately and I made a remarkable discovery.
This little town southeast of Portland has a half-block long mural, a statue and even a parade for one of the most important figures in its history -- Bobbi the wonder dog.
Yes, a dog.
Now, to be fair, Silverton has numerous murals around their downtown with different figures from their history -- Homer Davenport, the old oak that was in the center of town and the Gallon House Covered Bridge.
But Bobbi has a special place in Silverton.
Off North Water Street you can see a life-sized painted statue of the collie, and a replica of the doghouse he stayed in.
Now you might be asking yourself, what is so special about this perky pooch? In 1923, the family who owned Bobbi, packed him up for a family trip to Wolcott, Indiana. On August 15, 1923, the dog got separated from the family and they couldn't find him after driving around the streets of Wolcott.
Heartbroken they drove back to Silverton. On Feb. 15, 1924, Bobbi showed up in Silverton -- crossing seven states and more than 2,500 miles. You can find out more information about his trip here.
Today you can see the trip he made in the mural along Water Street, where I assume the team from CSI: Miami pieced together his route.
Anyway, if you are in Silverton on the second Sunday in February, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., make sure you attend Bobbi Day -- and see historic pictures, the mural, statue and doghouse. You also will get to meet the people of Silverton.
Just imagine, if their pets are this amazing, the people must be too.
For more information, contact Vince Till, 503-873-6572.
