July 2 is a significant date in the history of Oregon, as it is marked by several notable events and achievements. Here are five interesting facts about July 2 in Oregon history:

1. Oregon Territorial Legislature first convened: On July 2, 1849, the first legislative session of the Oregon Territorial Legislature began in Oregon City. The meeting was attended by nine council members and eighteen representatives, who took up matters such as organizing the government, establishing courts, and creating a militia. This marked an important milestone in the development of Oregon as a recognized territory under the United States.

2. First Oregonian to serve on the U.S. Supreme Court: On July 2, 1906, President Theodore Roosevelt nominated Lamar Hardy as an Associate Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court. Hardy, who was born in Oregon and had previously served as a federal judge in the state, became the first Oregonian to hold a seat on the nation's highest court. He served until his retirement in 1922.

3. Oregon State Capitol dedicated: On July 2, 1938, the new Oregon State Capitol building in Salem was dedicated in a grand ceremony. The building, which had been under construction since 1936, was designed in a modernist style and featured a distinctive copper dome. The dedication was attended by thousands of Oregonians and featured speeches by Governor Charles Martin, Senator Richard Neuberger, and other state leaders.

4. Portland hosts international exposition: On July 2, 1959, the opening ceremonies of the International Trade Fair and World Flower Show were held in Portland. The exposition, which covered more than 102 acres, featured exhibits from over 40 countries and attracted millions of visitors over its six-month run. It was the largest fair of its kind ever held in the Pacific Northwest and helped to boost the local economy.

5. First openly gay mayor elected in Oregon: On July 2, 1994, Robert "Sam" Adams was elected mayor of Portland, becoming the first openly gay person to serve as mayor of a major U.S. city. Adams, who had previously served as a city commissioner, was re-elected in 2008 and served until 2012. He was a prominent advocate for LGBTQ rights and sustainability and helped to shape Portland's reputation as a progressive, environmentally-conscious city.

These are just a few of the notable events and achievements that have occurred on July 2 in Oregon history. From the early days of territorial governance to the groundbreaking election of a gay mayor, this date has played a significant role in shaping the identity and trajectory of the state.