GRESHAM -- At the request of school children, Rep. John Lim (R-Gresham) introduced legislation urging the return of the Willamette Meteorite from the American Museum of Natural History in New York.

KGW photo

A chunk of the Willamette Meteorite.

Recent reports from local media have inspired Rep. Lim to organize a campaign to purchase a 30-pound crown of the famed meteorite.

"I am interested in working with Oregon stakeholders to buy a piece of the Willamette Meteorite," Lim said. "I introduced HJR 30 in the 2007 legislative session, which asked for the return of the 15.5 ton meteorite to Oregon."

On October 28th, the current owner, Darryl Pitt, tried to auction a 30-pound segment of the Willamette Meteorite at a New York auction, which spurred controversy by the Confederated Tribe of Grand Ronde, who sees the meteorite as part of their cultural history.

The famous meteorite failed to attract a buyer.

Background: Willamette Meteorite doesn't sell at auction

Meanwhile, Lim has sent an official letter to Pitt seeking a reasonable asking price so he can begin fundraising. Lim thinks the meteorite would be best housed at Oregon Museum of Science & Industry.

"I believe this stone belongs to Oregon," Lim said. "If we cannot get the big one, let's try to get the crown as we approach the celebration for 150 years of statehood."