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Secrets Of Oregon’s Crooked River Ghost Outposts

Published:

by Kathryne Vela

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Ever wondered about the hidden history of Oregon's Crooked River? This area isn't just about stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures. It's also home to some eerie ghost towns that tell tales of a bygone era. These abandoned settlements, once bustling with life, now stand as silent witnesses to the past. Imagine walking through old streets where miners and settlers once lived, worked, and dreamed. Each ghost town has its own unique story, from the rise of the gold rush to the eventual decline. Ready to step back in time and uncover the secrets of these forgotten places? Let's dive into the mysterious world of Oregon's Crooked River ghost towns.

Secrets of Oregon's Crooked River Ghost Outposts

Oregon's Crooked River area is a treasure chest of ghost towns. These abandoned places tell stories of the past, from bustling mining towns to forgotten settlements. Let's uncover some of these hidden gems.

1. Shaniko

Shaniko, once known as the "Wool Capital of the World," thrived in the early 1900s. Today, it stands as a testament to the boom-and-bust cycles of the past.

  • Historic Buildings: Walk through the old Shaniko Hotel and the historic jail.
  • Annual Events: Visit during Shaniko Days for a glimpse into its lively past.

2. Antelope

Antelope's history is as wild as its name. This town saw a surge during the Rajneesh movement in the 1980s.

  • Old Schoolhouse: Explore the remnants of the old schoolhouse.
  • Rajneesh Relics: Find traces of the Rajneeshpuram commune.

3. Ashwood

Ashwood was a mining town that saw its peak during the gold rush. Now, it's a quiet reminder of those golden days.

  • Mining Ruins: Discover old mining equipment and structures.
  • Scenic Views: Enjoy the beautiful landscapes surrounding the town.

4. Millican

Millican, once a bustling stop along the Oregon Central Military Road, now lies mostly deserted.

  • Abandoned Buildings: Wander through the old general store and post office.
  • Deserted Streets: Feel the eerie silence of its empty streets.

5. Richmond

Richmond was a small farming community that faded away as larger towns grew.

  • Old Farmhouses: See the decaying farmhouses and barns.
  • Cemetery: Visit the old cemetery for a glimpse into the lives of past residents.

6. Friend

Friend, named after a local settler, was once a thriving agricultural hub. Now, it's a quiet ghost town.

  • Railroad Depot: Check out the old railroad depot.
  • Schoolhouse: Visit the abandoned schoolhouse that once echoed with children's laughter.

7. Boyd

Boyd was a milling town that declined after the mill closed. Its remnants tell a story of industrial change.

  • Mill Ruins: Explore the ruins of the old mill.
  • Historic Homes: Walk past the few remaining historic homes.

8. Kent

Kent, once a lively town along the Columbia Southern Railway, now stands mostly empty.

  • Railway Station: Visit the old railway station.
  • General Store: Peek into the abandoned general store.

9. Gateway

Gateway was a small community that dwindled as transportation routes changed.

  • Old Church: See the remains of the old church.
  • Historic School: Explore the abandoned school building.

10. Ashwood

Ashwood, a mining town that saw its peak during the gold rush, now stands as a quiet reminder of those golden days.

  • Mining Ruins: Discover old mining equipment and structures.
  • Scenic Views: Enjoy the beautiful landscapes surrounding the town.

11. Bakeoven

Bakeoven, named after a nearby creek, was a stagecoach stop that faded away with the advent of the automobile.

  • Stagecoach Station: Visit the old stagecoach station.
  • Historic Markers: Look for historic markers that tell the town's story.

12. Clarno

Clarno, once a thriving ranching community, now lies mostly abandoned.

  • Old Ranches: Explore the remnants of old ranches.
  • Clarno Unit: Visit the nearby Clarno Unit of the John Day Fossil Beds for a glimpse into prehistoric times.

13. Hampton

Hampton, a small settlement along the Oregon Central Military Road, now stands mostly deserted.

  • Abandoned Buildings: Wander through the old general store and post office.
  • Deserted Streets: Feel the eerie silence of its empty streets.

14. Horse Heaven

Horse Heaven, a remote settlement, was once a haven for ranchers. Now, it's a ghost town with a fitting name.

  • Ranch Ruins: Discover the ruins of old ranch buildings.
  • Scenic Views: Enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

15. Paulina

Paulina, named after a local Native American leader, was once a bustling community. Now, it's a quiet ghost town.

  • Old Schoolhouse: Explore the remnants of the old schoolhouse.
  • Historic Buildings: Walk through the few remaining historic buildings.

Hidden Gems of the Crooked River

Oregon's Crooked River ghost outposts offer a unique glimpse into the past. These hidden gems, like the abandoned towns of Shaniko and Antelope, tell stories of boom and bust. Exploring these sites, you can almost hear the echoes of bustling streets and see the remnants of once-thriving communities. The rugged beauty of the surrounding landscape adds to the allure, making it a perfect destination for history buffs and adventure seekers alike. Whether you're hiking through old mining trails or photographing weathered buildings, each visit promises a new discovery. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and set out to uncover the secrets of these forgotten places. The Crooked River's ghost outposts are waiting to share their tales with you.