Oregon earthquakes, 1841 through 1958

Abstract

Abstract Earthquakes occurring in Oregon in the years 1841 through 1958 have been tabulated. A literature search included scientific publications, state newspapers, and a historical journal. During this period, approximately 167 earthquakes have been reported in the state of Oregon and approximately 73 at sea off the Oregon coast. The historical account of earthquakes between 1841 and 1900 is apparently incomplete, as evidence was found for only 30 earthquakes during that time. Earthquake reporting in the State was largely in terms of felt reports and was somewhat restricted to the more populated zones. For this reason, the actual number of small earthquakes that occurred in the State may be greater than that found by this search. It is estimated that this study includes at least 90 per cent of the earthquakes occurring in Oregon for which there is written record.