The 1962 Seaside Labor Day Riot

• Dates: March 27, 2025
• Location: Cannon Beach History Center & Museum
• Time: 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM
• Price: Free

The Cannon Beach History Center & Museum invites the community to an exciting upcoming lecture that delves into one of the most infamous events in Seaside’s history. On Thursday, March 27th at 4:00 p.m., join us for an in-depth exploration of the 1962 Seaside Labor Day Riot. This compelling presentation will be led by R.J. Marx, an accomplished author, editor, and journalist with years of experience covering Oregon’s North Coast. Marx's extensive research and firsthand experience provide unique insights into the events that rocked the quiet coastal town and captured international attention.

During the early 1960s, Seaside, Oregon, found itself thrust into the national spotlight as American youth, empowered by a wave of cultural change, descended upon the town during Labor Day weekends. What began as a gathering of young people seeking fun and music turned into a series of chaotic events that left a lasting impression on the community. In 1962, large crowds gathered on Broadway in downtown Seaside, leading to three years of escalating confrontations between youth and authorities. Law enforcement, arrests, injuries, and media coverage ensued, sparking nationwide conversations about the emerging generation gap. The 1962 riot marked the beginning of a turbulent period for Seaside, forcing the town to grapple with the challenges of youth culture, tourism, and public safety. This lecture will take an up-close look at the pivotal first year of unrest and how it set the stage for subsequent events in 1963 and 1964.

In addition to the lecture, copies of R.J.’s book, Seaside’s Rock ’N’ Roll Riots 1962-1964, will be available for purchase, and attendees will have the opportunity to meet with R.J. and have their copies signed.

R.J. Marx is an award-winning journalist and editor with a distinguished career spanning both coasts. During his tenure at the Record-Review newspaper in Bedford, New York, he earned numerous accolades from the New York Press Association. In 2015, Marx relocated to the Oregon Coast, where he served as the editor of the Seaside Signal and as a South County reporter for The Astorian until 2023. His deep knowledge of Seaside's history and its evolution over the decades offers valuable perspectives on this era of change. Marx currently resides in Seaside with his wife Eve and their dogs, Lucy and Trixie.

The lecture will take place on Thursday, March 27th, 2025, at 4:00 p.m. at the Cannon Beach History Center & Museum in Cannon Beach, Oregon. Admission is free and open to the public, with donations appreciated. Don't miss this fascinating look into a defining moment in Seaside's history. Seating is limited, so arrive early to secure your spot.

For more information, visit our website at www.cbhistory.org or contact us at 503-436-9301.

The Cannon Beach History Center & Museum is dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich history and culture of Cannon Beach and the surrounding region. Through engaging exhibits, educational programs, and special events, the museum offers a window into the past for visitors of all ages.