The Oswald West home on a bluff high above a spectacular section of beach close to Haystack Rock south of Cannon Beach has special meaning to citizens of Oregon for two reasons: It is a very good example of a coastal Adirondack style log cabin. More importantly, it was built by Oswald West in 1913 who was then the state's Governor (1911-1915) and who was responsible for the famous legislation securing all of Oregon's beaches for the public by declaring them public highways. Clearly his love for Oregon's beaches is reflected in his love for this home and site, his only known residence still existing. Sadly, the house burned by arson in May of 1991 leaving charred walls and a detailed reconstruction project to come. Nevertheless, this special association of site (and potentially the restored home) to a cherished heritage of Oregon, its public beaches, make it worthy of the historic register. - NRHP, 28 February 1992