“Made in Oregon” sign could get makeover

The debate about what to do with the historic “Made in Oregon” sign atop the White Stag building at 70 N.W. Couch St. will begin again on Monday.

The Portland Historic Landmark Commission holds a public hearing to gather testimony regarding the University of Oregon’s intention to change the sign to “University of Oregon. The university is the latest occupant of the White Stag building, with renovations completed last year.

Built in 1940, the sign originally read “White Satin Sugar” and consisted only of the state’s outline. In 1959 the sign was changed to “Home of White Stag Sportswear” and the iconic white stag with a red nose was added. As of 1997, the sign has read “Made in Oregon,” a reference to the Made in Oregon retail chain featuring homegrown products.

On March 9, the sign’s owner and creator, Ramsay Signs, Inc., will ask the Historic Landmark Commission for permission to change the sign to read “University of Oregon,” a reflection of the university’s presence in the White Stag block.

The hearing will be at 1:30 p.m. on Monday, March 9, at 1900 S.W. Fourth Ave., Room 2500A.