National Register Listing

Mitchell Recreation Area

a.k.a. Mitchell Monument

Forest Service Rd. 34, Fremont National Forest, Bly, OR
Local significance of the site:
Military; Social History

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2003.

The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.

Oregon was the first state in the United States to legalize physician-assisted suicide. In 1994, Oregon voters passed the Death with Dignity Act, which allows terminally ill patients to obtain a prescription for a lethal dose of medication to end their lives.
Oregon random facts
Lake County, Oregon is a region rich in history and natural beauty. The area has been inhabited for thousands of years by several Native American tribes, including the Paiute and Klamath tribes. These tribes relied on the abundant resources of the region, such as the wildlife and fish found in the lakes and rivers.

European settlers began arriving in the area in the mid-19th century. In 1868, Lake County was officially established, named after the numerous lakes that dot the landscape. The main industries in the county at that time were ranching and mining, with settlers drawn to the area by the promise of fertile land and precious minerals.

One event that significantly shaped Lake County's history was the establishment of the Oregon Central Military Road in the 1870s. This road connected the county to the Willamette Valley, resulting in increased trade and transportation opportunities. The county's population grew rapidly during this time, and towns such as Lakeview and Paisley were established as trading centers.

In the early 20th century, Lake County experienced a boom in the timber industry, with logging becoming a major source of income for the region. However, the decline of the timber industry in the later decades led to a shift in the county's economy towards agriculture and tourism. Today, Lake County is known for its stunning natural landscapes, including the picturesque Crater Lake National Park, and continues to be a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Lake County, Oregon.

  • 1874 - Lake County is established.
  • 1880 - The town of Lakeview is founded.
  • 1892 - Lake County courthouse is constructed.
  • 1903 - The Lake County Examiner newspaper begins publication.
  • 1907 - The Oregon Trunk Railway is finished, connecting Lakeview to the national rail network.
  • 1910 - Lake County's population reaches its peak at over 10,000 residents.
  • 1928 - The Warner Valley Electric Association is formed, bringing electricity to the area.
  • 1930 - The Great Depression causes a decline in population and economic activity.
  • 1962 - The Ana Reservoir is constructed for irrigation and flood control.
  • 1971 - The Warner Canyon Ski Area opens near Lakeview.
  • 1990 - The population of Lake County drops to just over 7,000 people.
  • 2000 - The Hart Mountain National Antelope Refuge is established.