Save 203 E Main: Preserve Hillsboro’s History

Help Us Save a Piece of Hillsboro History — and Keep Local Businesses Thriving

My name is Richie, and I’m the owner of Mo’o Manu/Samson’s Collective at 203 E Main Street in Hillsboro, Oregon. I'm raising money to purchase and preserve the historic Morgan & Bailey building where my shop and four other local small businesses are located.

This isn’t just about a building — it’s about protecting a part of Hillsboro’s history and future.

The building at 203 E Main is a designated historic landmark in the heart of downtown Hillsboro. Developers are eyeing it, and if it’s sold, the new owner could raise rents beyond what small businesses can afford — or tear it down altogether. We can’t let that happen.

These businesses support the community — from partnering with local schools and drug court programs to offering a space where creativity and healing can thrive.

I’ve spoken with the City of Hillsboro, and they support this plan. We just need help getting it off the ground.

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My Story: From Prison to Purpose

Years ago, I was incarcerated at Limon Correctional Facility in Colorado, and my story was featured on MSNBC’s Locked Up. I’ve since turned my life around, opened my tattoo shop, and dedicated myself to building something better — for myself and my community.

Through my business, I support:

• Pacific University

• Century High School activities

• The Washington County Drug Court program

• Women Stepping Outdoors

• Mentor young artists and give back to others coming out of tough situations

This building is part of that story. It’s where second chances take root. And now it needs a chance of its own.

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What We Need

I’m launching this fundraiser to raise $2.2 million so I can buy this building ($1.9 million) and make essential repairs (estimated at $300k), protecting it from developers who want to tear it down or raise rents beyond what small, community-driven businesses can afford.

This is more than just real estate. This is about preserving a historical landmark, defending the livelihoods of local entrepreneurs, and standing up for the community that has supported me on my journey from incarceration to redemption.

Every dollar helps us preserve this space and keep it affordable for the people who need it most.

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❤️ How You Can Help

• Donate what you can

• Share this campaign with friends, family, and Hillsboro community groups

• Support small, local, and resilient businesses

Thank you for being part of this vision. With your help, we can make sure 203 E Main stays in the hands of the people who love and respect it most.

I never imagined I’d have the chance to do something like this — to not only rebuild my life but help preserve something beautiful and meaningful for my entire community.

With your support, we can protect this historic landmark, preserve the soul of downtown Hillsboro, and ensure that local businesses like mine continue to thrive — not just now, but for the future.

Thank you for being part of this story.

— Richard Samson

Tattoo Artist | Business Owner | Hillsboro Resident | Grateful Human