Located next to Fort Rock State Natural Area--sometimes called the “Oregon Outback”--the Fort Rock Homestead Village Museum is a great spot to stop and soak up some history.
The museum is comprised of over 10 historic structures gathered together into one location from around the Fork Rock and Christmas Valley ranching/farming area. The buildings date back as far as 1909, and represent the wave of homesteaders that flocked to the area following the Homestead Act of 1862.
Today, museum visitors can explore a range of old buildings and tools, including homestead houses, a church, a log cabin, a general store, a blacksmith shop, a single-room school house, a trapper's cabin, and even a chuck wagon. There are also historical pieces gathered in the area, including a 19th-century well driller and horse-drawn farm equipment.
When the museum is open (from Memorial Day to Labor Day, Friday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) travelers can pop in and admire all the on-site buildings. There’s also a small reception center, a gift shop, and restrooms. Fort Rock is located approximately 64 miles southeast of Bend, just off Highway 31.
For more information, visit the Fort Rock Village Homestead Museum at: http://www.fortrockoregon.com.
Rick
9 years agoGreat to know about this exploration into our history in Central Oregon--thanks, Nastacia!