(University of Oregon, 1986-03) Parks, Bonnie Wehle
A blue paint color, known as "Aurora Blue," was used in the Aurora Colony (1856-1883) at Aurora, Oregon . The color now used is a light blue which does not correspond to historical samples . The nature and use of this paint was investigated using primary source documentation, field and laboratory analysis , and a personal computer data base as an interpretive tool. A thorough overview of the field of paint research has been presented and issues examined.
The pigment was found to be Prussian blue . The hues spanned a range between light blue and deep purple blue . It was used on chair rails, baseboards, and other interior wood architectural elements and furniture pieces . Examination of account books indicated the possibility of home manufacture and mixing of the pigment until the mid 1870s when commercial paint appeared in the records .
