At their home in Florida


Hazel Grey Gegoux & Frances George Gegoux

Circa 1960

   Hazel Grey Gegoux could correctly be credited with releasing the "The Inception of the Birth of Oregon" to the people of Oregon.  Great grandpa signed the painting over to his son Frank G. Gegoux on February 4th, 1925.  It was not until after Frank's death in 1966, that Hazel had the authority to act.  On May 10th, 1968 the transaction was completed between Alfred C. Collier and Hazel, which led to the transfer of the painting to the people of Oregon.

   "The Inception of the Birth of Oregon" was destined for exhibition in Oregon.  Various sources have been credited with having "found" the painting.  Make no mistake, Hazel knew where it was, and it is no coincidence that the painting was transferred soon after Frank's death.

   I remember, as a young man, studying Oregon History from a book which used a photo of the painting as a chapter heading.  I could only hope that some day I could view it.  Thanks to Hazel, among others, the painting is now available to all of us.

   For her part, Hazel was no less in need of funds in her later years than was Great grandpa.  Nonetheless, she accepted $500.00 for the painting which did not even cover the storage charges over the 40 years.  She felt that the painting belonged in Oregon.  She lived to see it exhibited and that was a source of pleasure in her waning years.

Thank You.   Theodore Gegoux III, 1996
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