Finn (new media communications, Oregon State U.) has produced a weekly column, "Offbeat Oregon History," since 2008, published in 13 community newspapers in the state. In this book, he invites locals and tourists alike to step into Portland, Oregon's seedier side of the 1860s to the early 1900s. Coverage includes an overview of Portland's beginnings as a frontier seaport town, its saloons and gambling dens, brothels, reputation for "shanghaiing," drug smuggling, early police force, problematic politicians, and events that finally turned the tide of wickedness. Each chapter includes a QR code allowing smartphone users access to the chapter's webpage for additional resources; readers can also reach the websites via addresses provided below each QR code. Illustrated with b&w photographs. No subject index. Annotation ©2012 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)