Base Camp Brewing, other organizations raising funds to preserve local Portland landmark

Craft credos No. 2 and 4 are to serve the community and embrace philanthropy. Base Camp Brewing is trying to accomplish both of these by partnering with Next Adventure, Blue Collar Agency and The Oregon Nordic Club to host a fundraising event to aid in the restoration and preservation of the Tilly Jane A-Frame. The event will take place at Base Camp Brewing Co. in Portland on Sept. 15 at 6:30 p.m.

You, like us, probably have no clue what this thing is, but the Tilly Jane A-Frame is a big deal to the outdoorsy folks in Portland. It was built on the north side of Mount Hood at 5,700 feet in 1939. For the past 77 years, it’s been a refuge for winter climbers, and a backwoods getaway for friends and families. Since 2011, cabin operations have been managed by the all-volunteer Portland chapter of the Oregon Nordic Club (ONC). One of their main goals is its upkeep — their vested interest in it arises from their hope that future generations of people can enjoy the unique and fruitful experience of staying overnight in the back-country of Mt. Hood.

The blunt truth: Tilly Jane is at a critical juncture.

“It’s going to take $213,000 to make the required repairs to Save Tilly Jane,” said Andre Fortin, steward of the Tilly Jane A-Frame. “Although it’s included within the National Historic Register, the A-Frame has been a volunteer-run recreation facility since construction. The money raised will restore the Tilly Jane A-Frame back to working order so travelers can enjoy it for years to come.”

“Though its four walls only measure 28 by 42 feet, Tilly Jane represents so much more. Now is a chance to give back. To leave a legacy. It’s our turn. Please join us to help SAVE TILLY JANE,” said April Donovan, creative director and partner with Blue Collar Agency. All are welcome to the event.

• T-shirts will be on sale for $20; custom pint glasses for $10
• There will be a raffle and silent auction at the event with prizes from Mount Hood Meadows, Dakine and more
• 100 percent of proceeds go to the Tilly Jane A-Frame restoration project
• A short presentation will be given about the proposed work and the history of this structure