Barney Blalock

After over 33 years working the grain docks on Portland's waterfront, Barney Blalock turned his hand to the task of revealing the true history of this remarkable port. His interest was drawn to Astoria as well after he discovered that for many years the rivers were too shallow to ship all cargo from Portland. Astoria was treated as an extension of the port, with cargo being "lightered" up and down the river on barges. For three decades both ports were under the control of gangs of sailor boardinghouse masters, called "shanghaiers."

There are many tales of these shanghaiers floating around the city watering holes, but most of them are fables invented in recent years. Barney Blalock's book, "Portland's Lost Waterfront," (History Press, 2012) tells the tale of the early years, from the very beginning of the city up to World War I. This book met with good reviews and lots of interest, landing him a place on OPB Television's "Oregon Experience," in an episode called "Portland Noir," focusing on the seedy side of the city in the late 19th century.

"The Oregon Shanghaiers: Columbia River Crimping From Astoria to Portland" (History Press, 2014) is bound to stir up controversy, as it is the first book on a subject that has been mythologized, but not seriously studied. The book comes heavily footnoted with references using only original source material. "The Oregon Shanghaiers" is devoid of any of the old fables, as the author feels the true story is far more compelling.

Barney Blalock now lives near the old Rose City Golf Course below Alameda Ridge, in Portland, Oregon. Each day he sits typing on his notebook and watching the interesting bird population with his friend, Ralph who is an ornithologist and a domestic short-hair. They are joined by his companion and wife, Nektaria, a first rate editor, professional researcher, and Byzantine choir director.