Caples House in Columbia City

An early pioneer, Dr. Charles Green Caples migrated across the Oregon Trail as a boy. After his marriage to Lucinda McBride, he studied medicine in Portland and passed the examination by the Board of Physicians for his degree. In 1870 he constructed his two story home on the same spot where his father Joseph Caples built his log cabin in 1846. The family lived on this land until 1959, when Dell Caples Houghton, a daughter of Charles and Lucinda Caples and a member of Mount St. Helens Chapter, Oregon State Society Daughters of the American Revolution, willed the house and property to the OSSDAR as a museum.

The Caples House Museum complex occupies a whole city block in the historic locality of Columbia City Oregon.  Here, in 1870, on the banks of the beautiful Columbia River and with a majestic view of Mt. St. Helens, Dr. Charles Green Caples built his two-story home from logs cut near Monticello Washington, now called Longview.  The house was occupied continuously by the Caples family until 1959.



The house contains a parlor, doctor's office, kitchen and pantry, three bedrooms; all with antique furniture. Other buildings include a wash house and tool shed. The old Carriage House has been converted into what is called the Childrens' Attic.  It contains an outstanding display of old dolls, toys, and childrens' items.  There is a collection of miniature dolls representing the First Ladies of the United States of America, dressed in their inaugural gowns—fashioned after the unique collection in the Smithsonian Institution.

Caples House Grounds

A pioneer Tool Shed contains many old tools and articles that were used in pioneer times.

There is a Country Store on the property and along with Oregon history memorabilia, there are hand-crafted items, antiques, flowers and herbs as well as the seasonal bounty of Dr. Caples’ 130-year-old Apple and Pear Orchard.

View from the Caples House Museum and Knapp Social Center

Located on the grounds of the Dr. Charles Green Caples House in historic Columbia City, the Knapp Social Center, filled with antiques and overlooking the Columbia River, is a unique and lovely setting for weddings, anniversary celebrations, reunions, and club or business conferences.  Occupying an entire city block, our park-like grounds are ideal for outdoor functions.  With an expansive view of the river, your gathering is further enhanced by vistas of  flowers, ancient apple and pear trees, and  a charming Country Store that shares the property with the Caples House, which was built in 1870. 

Our large meeting room, paneled in warm woods with its inviting fireplace, will comfortably  accommodate your large group and we offer a fully equipped kitchen with the use of dishes, silver, coffee makers, plus tables and chairs. 

Rates are competitive and rental can be arranged by calling the Property Managers at 503 397 5390. 

Caples House & Knapp Memorial Social Center
Columbia City, OR 97018
(503) 397-5390

There is a small admissions charge to the museum. Please call the museum  for specific information or for other inquiries.

Caretaker, Caples Museum
P.O. Box 263
Columbia City, OR 97018
Phone (503) 397-5390

Email: TheCaplesHouse

Caples House front picture courtesy of Columbia River PUD

Last updated 07/22/2008