| Sunset Bay, west of Coos Bay, gives it's name to a state park that provides camping, RV, picnic, golf, swimming, fishing, and hiking facilities. One of the most scenic beaches on the south coast. The small island off the point on the right was formerly known as Squaw Island. This apparently caused great pain to certain local residents who informed us that the word "squaw" was derived from a pre-Columbian language prevalent in New England and referred to female genitalia. Following a mild brouhaha, the name of the island was changed by state and Federal authorities to Qochyax Island (pronounced Kway-KEE-awk). According to officials of the Confederated Tribes of Coos, Lower Umpqua, and Siuslaw Indians, this means "place where the women and children went," or something like that. Incidentally, lest someone in New Delhi or it's environs becomes offended by my use of the word "Indian," I must emphasize that the name of the aforementioned organization is their name, not mine. Take it up with them. |
The Oregon coast near Pistol River in Curry County just south of Coos County.
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