History of the (grist) Wheel

Douglas County, located in southwestern Oregon, has a rich and fascinating history that dates back thousands of years. The region was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Umpqua, Cow Creek, and Takelma people, who thrived on the abundant natural resources of the area.

European settlement began in the early 1800s, when fur traders and explorers ventured into the region. In 1828, the Hudson's Bay Company established Fort Umpqua near present-day Elkton as a fur trading post. The Rogue River Indian War in the 1850s, sparked by conflicts between Native Americans and settlers, had a significant impact on the region, leading to the establishment of a reservation for the displaced tribes.

During the mid-nineteenth century, the discovery of gold brought a wave of miners and settlers to Douglas County. Several prosperous mining towns, such as Canyonville and Glendale, were established as a result. However, as the gold rush waned, the region transitioned to agricultural activities, particularly timber production. The dense forests in Douglas County attracted timber companies, which played a crucial role in the county's economy for decades.

In the early twentieth century, the Roseburg Lumber Company became one of the largest employers in the area. Douglas County experienced periods of growth and economic prosperity throughout the twentieth century, along with the challenges associated with the timber industry's fluctuations. Today, the county boasts a diverse economy, with tourism, manufacturing, healthcare, and education playing significant roles in the community's vitality.