Camp McKinley (1)

 (1898-1898) - A Spanish American War muster camp for the 2nd Oregon Volunteer Infantry established 29 Apr 1898 on the grounds of Irvington Racetrack in northeast Portland, Oregon. Named after then President William McKinley. Probably disestablished 19 may 1898 when federal property was removed.



History
Camp McKinley was established 29 Apr 1898 to house the Federalized Oregon National Guard, 2nd Oregon Volunteer Infantry, in response to the start of the Spanish American War. One hundred sixty-one tents were pitched on the grounds of the Irvington Racetrack in northeast Portland. The Irvington Racetrack occupied the area currently bounded by NE Fremont St., NE 7th Ave, NE 12th Ave, and probably to about NE Knott or NE Brazee. The current Irving Park was the location of the barns and stables.

The first company of soldiers arrived 30 Apr 1898. On 11 May 1898, first battalion of the regiment (Companies A, B, C and D) boarded a train to the Presidio of San Francisco bound for the Philippines. The remaining troops (Companies E, F, G, H, I, J, K, L and M) followed on 16 May 1898. They spent 12 months fighting in the Philippines and returned home to a hero's welcome Jul 1899.

Current Status
Sources:
 * , page 831.
 * Oregon Military History, Forts-Camps-Roads
 * , page 149-150.
 * , page 666-667

Links:
 * North American Forts - Camp McKinley
 * Oregon Historical Society
 * Irvington Community Association