An exhibit at the Oregon Historical Society through June 17 colorfully explains how Portland became known as the “City of Roses.” Part of the story includes city boosters and volunteers giving away thousands of rose cuttings named after mysterious French dressmaker Madame Caroline Testout.
Curator Laura King created the exhibit, “Madame Caroline Testout: The Rose That Made Portland Famous,” based on her years of research and personal dedication to keeping Portland’s rose culture thriving.