The Miss Oregon Parade in the summer of 1950 was a major affair. The pageant had only begun three years earlier in 1947 and the photo here shows the throngs of people out in force to witness the first inaugural Miss Oregon parade. Miss McMinnville, Elizabeth Ann Baker, wowed the judges with her classical piano rendition of “Clair De Lune” and was crowned Miss Oregon amidst throngs of supporters. Oregonians flocked to Seaside that year, and as you can see, folks had to get creative to secure a good view of the festivities. Standing elbow to elbow, some folks had to climb the street lamps (not exactly recommended) to get a decent vantage point. The parade itself featured Miss Oregon contestants from around the state, local dignitaries, as well as the very first Chevrolet convertible off the General Motors assembly line following World War II.
A tradition that’s been going strong for 65 years in Seaside, the Miss Oregon pageant is now held the last week in June every year at the Seaside Civic & Convention Center. For those planning on attending the parade, just make sure to stake out a spot downtown on Broadway a bit beforehand. As this photo demonstrates, the best views of Miss Oregon royalty are rewarded to the early birds.
