Hawthorne Boulevard is approximately three miles long and runs from Southeast 12th Avenue to 39th Avenue (Cesar Chavez Boulevard).
* The street is home to a variety of businesses, including independent shops, restaurants, and bars.
* Hawthorne Boulevard is also a popular destination for artists, musicians, and other creative types.
* The street is a great place to live, work, and play.

**Early History**

Hawthorne Boulevard was originally named “U” Street when it was platted in 1853. In 1862, the street was renamed Asylum Avenue after the Oregon Hospital for the Insane, which was located on the street. The hospital was founded by Dr. James C. Hawthorne, after whom the street was later renamed.

**Growth and Development**

In the late 19th century, Hawthorne Boulevard began to develop into a major commercial and residential street. The streetcar line was extended to Hawthorne in 1889, which helped to spur growth along the street. By the early 20th century, Hawthorne was a thriving commercial district with a wide variety of businesses, including grocery stores, restaurants, and shops.

**The 1960s and 1970s**

In the 1960s and 1970s, Hawthorne Boulevard underwent a period of decline. Many of the businesses on the street closed, and the neighborhood became increasingly run-down. However, in the 1980s, Hawthorne Boulevard began to experience a resurgence. New businesses opened, and the neighborhood began to gentrify.

**Today**

Today, Hawthorne Boulevard is a vibrant and diverse street with a mix of commercial and residential uses. The street is home to a wide variety of businesses, including independent shops, restaurants, and bars. Hawthorne Boulevard is also a popular destination for artists, musicians, and other creative types.

**Conclusion**

Hawthorne Boulevard is a unique and important part of Portland’s history and culture. The street has undergone many changes over the years, but it has always been a vibrant and diverse community. Hawthorne Boulevard is a great place to live, work, and play, and it is sure to continue to be a popular destination for years to come.

**Additional Information**

**Recent Crime Surges**

In recent years, Hawthorne Boulevard has experienced a number of crime surges. In 2020, there was a 26% increase in property crime and a 17% increase in violent crime on the street. These crime surges have led to concerns about safety among residents and businesses on Hawthorne.

**Upbeat Outlook for the Coming Years**

Despite the recent crime surges, there is an upbeat outlook for Hawthorne Boulevard in the coming years. The street is home to a number of new businesses and developments, and there is a growing sense of community among residents and businesses. The city of Portland is also working to address the crime issue on Hawthorne, and there are a number of initiatives underway to make the street safer.