It acquired its name from Henry Mock, who settled a donation land claim in the area with his family in 1852.

[3][4] In 1920, a committee appointed by Portland mayor George L. Baker recommended that Mock's Bottom be filled for future industrial development.

At the time, a large portion of Mock's Bottom was owned by private interests, and was considered to be one of the best duck hunting areas in Portland.

[6] In 1980, the Port reached an agreement with the City of Portland whereby 177 acres (72 ha) of Mock's Bottom would be developed into industrial land.

[7] Port officials designated the project the "Mocks Landing Industrial Park", as they felt "bottom" was not dignified.