If you are exploring Portland’s history along Tom McCall Waterfront Park, you will be pursuing the intriguing tale of a lost artwork: the Theodore Roosevelt Memorial. Erected in 1939 in what was then Battleship Oregon Park, this vanished 18-foot monument commemorated the 26th U.S. president and Spanish–American War veterans. Designed by sculptor Oliver L.
Barrett using Central Oregon red tufa, it featured a severely geometric, 16-ton figure holding a sword. Rather than portraying Roosevelt directly, the modern statue symbolized his fighting spirit, though it also carved a smaller realistic profile of him on its left side alongside an inspiring patriotic inscription. While you cannot view the original sculpture today—it mysteriously disappeared in 1942 during Harbor Drive road construction and remains unlocated—visiting its historic site offers a fascinating window into Portland’s public art past.
The controversial piece sparked fierce debate, earning nicknames like the "Colossus of Portland" and harsh comparisons to a "monstrosity," yet it stood as one of Barrett's most ambitious creations. Today, you can stroll the scenic waterfront area near the Hawthorne Bridge where this lost treasure once stood, reflecting on one of the city's greatest historical and artistic mysteries.
What to see at Theodore Roosevelt Memorial
- 18-foot red tufa monument sculpted by Oliver L. Barrett
- Commemorated Theodore Roosevelt and Spanish–American War veterans
- Mysterious disappearance in 1942 during Harbor Drive construction
- Modern geometric design dubbed the "Colossus of Portland"
Visiting tips
When visiting Tom McCall Waterfront Park near the Hawthorne Bridge, keep in mind that the monument mysteriously vanished in 1942, so you are visiting its former historical location rather than an existing sculpture.
How long: 30-60 minutes · Best time: Daytime
How to get there & what’s nearby
Theodore Roosevelt Memorial is easy to reach on Portland’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Portland Art Museum and Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Portland travel guide.
See the full Portland travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.