Our History...
Since 1917, Crestview Manor has welcomed thousands of guests to enjoy its distinctive warmth and beauty. Edward Ehrman, a Portland wholesale grocer, constructed this mansion, earlier known as "Ehrmanor," as a summer home for his family. This beautiful structure was designed in the English Cottage style by architect A.E. Doyle, who also designed structures such as the Multnomah County Library, the first Menucha mansion, and the Multnomah Falls Lodge. The manor was constructed over a two-year period using imported stone from Italy and the finest cherry wood for its interior. Located high atop the cliffs overlooking a spectacular view of the Columbia River Gorge, this original 11,000 square foot summer retreat included amenities such as an open truss ceiling, three large fireplaces, banks of French doors, tennis court, swimming pool and a reflecting pond.
In 1933, the Ehrman family sold the estate to second owner, Jim Roby who stayed at the manor during the summers. The third owner, Edwin Hollinshead, acquired the property and changed the name to "Crestview Manor" as a place for large business parties and formal balls. Patriotically supporting the home front during World War II , the carriage house and barn were remodeled into apartments to provide free housing for local school teachers.
Then in 1952, the Northwest District of the International Church of the Foursquare Gospel purchased the property, developing a whole new purpose for the former show piece. 1953 marked the first summer of youth and children's camps held at Crestview, a tradition that has been maintained ever since. Today, Crestview Manor is still owned and operated by the Cascade, Columbia, Mt. Hood and Willamette Districts of Foursquare churches. Crestview currently serves over 6,000 guests annually by hosting seminars, conferences, banquets, weddings, teas, summer camps and retreats.