Primary Source Sets

Amanda Reed and her husband, Simeon, bequeathed their fortune to found an institution of learning, which became what is now known as Reed College. Simeon owned several different businesses following his and Amanda's move to Oregon from Massachusetts. One of the companies was Oregon Steam and Navigation Company, which he founded and which ultimately became the largest shipping line in the Northwest. The company made him a millionaire, and upon his death, he left his money to his wife, Amanda.

Whereas Simeon was known for his flashy taste and displays of wealth, "Amanda Reed on the other hand, was the yin to Simeon’s yang: petite, reserved, a homebody who shunned ostentation, delighted in the laughter of children, and for their pleasure, purchased a magic lantern and a music box."¹ Amanda's will specified that the money would go to found an institution of learning. The Reed Institute broke ground in 1904 thanks to the efforts of the executor of Amanda's will, Martin Winch, and T.L. Eliot, a reverend and highly regarded Portlander. Amanda's will was embroiled in legal battles for several years, however, so the college did not officially open until 1911. Above, Amanda's cookbook displays three recipes from her social circle, including pickled tomatoes and two different types of cake.

1. Katauskas, Ted. "Fighting for Amanda Reed's Dream." Reed Magazine, March 1, 2011.