August 16, 2025
For the first time in 170 years, the gates of the Christilla Pioneer Cemetery swung open to the public!
Thanks to the Rotary Club of Clackamas, boys team charity, Happy Valley League, Happy Valley Hikers, and so many dedicated community members, the once-overgrown site is now a beautiful place of reflection and remembrance.
The cemetery, established in 1852 by early settlers, many of them Oregon Trail pioneers, holds 29 marked graves, each with a story to tell.
One of the most special moments? Long-time resident and 5th-generation descendant Dennis Deardorff cutting the ribbon and sharing what this restoration means to his family. His vision and passion sparked this entire project, and today, we all got to celebrate it together.
A huge THANK YOU to everyone who had a hand (and likely a bee sting or bug bite or two!) in preserving this unique piece of Happy Valley’s history. Together, we’re keeping our roots strong while building community for the future.
Click here for information on our City’s history.
