Oregon celebrates its 150^th anniversary as a state this year. In keeping with this statewide celebration, the annual Reedsport Chainsaw Carving Sculpture Championship this past June adopted “Oregon 150” as its theme for 2015. Each carver created a work of art from what amounts to a large log representing someone or something in line with the 150^th theme.

This is by way of introducing you to the annual “Woodcarver’s Ball” so to speak on the Oregon Coast in Douglas County. Just 18 miles from Umpqua River Haven, this celebration of one of Oregon’s largest industries, timber, takes place every year in Reedsport.

 The carving area.

Oregon has a lifetime history with timbering dating back to the early days (remember our blog post about Scottsburg). Mostly men worked in the forests of Oregon cutting down large Douglas Fir for housing and industry needs. When chainsaws came into being it changed the industry quite a bit by allowing faster, more efficient means of harvesting the trees that are grown for that purpose. Those doing the cutting became creative with their chainsaws working to outdo each other. The competitions were born.

The Reedsport competition was started 10 years ago by Bob and Cindy King, both Reedsport natives. Bob is a championship carver himself. The Kings have moved out of state and the 4 day event over Father’s Day is now managed by the Reedsport/Winchester Bay Chamber of Commerce and supported by sponsors, businesses and individuals. We want to share with you a few of the amazing sculptures the carvers have created over the years. Keep in mind these are all done with chainsaws.

 Beginning the process.

2010 First Place

 Angel 2015

Snorkel Bear 2008

Seals & Pelicans

 First Place

Bears are very popular at this event.  2015

Come stay with us at Umpqua River Haven next June and take in this unique artistic event on the Oregon Coast. You can learn more:  http://demo.jspicher.com/chainsaw  Don’t forget to come back to our blog!