Historical Markers in Tillamook County, Oregon
A Way of Life Centered around a 1-Ton Crystal Lens
Beals Building
Captain Robert Gray
From Footpath to Highway
In Harmony with Nature
Kelly Building
Mill Stone
Neahkahnie Mountain
Oswald West
Roosevelt Elk
Safety and Beauty
Steam Donkey
The First People
Tillamook County
Tillamook Hotel
Uncanny Neahkahnie
Wheeler
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About Tillamook County
Tillamook County Timeline
Tillamook County, located on the scenic Oregon Coast, has a rich and diverse history that spans over centuries. The area was initially inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Tillamook and Nehalem tribes, who thrived on the abundant natural resources of the region. They lived off the land, relying on fishing, hunting, and gathering for sustenance.
In the late 18th century, European explorers and fur trappers began to arrive in Tillamook County. In 1792, British explorer Captain George Vancouver sailed into Tillamook Bay, making him one of the first Europeans to set foot in the area. Traders soon followed, establishing a maritime fur trade along the coast.
In the mid-19th century, as Oregon was being settled by pioneers, Tillamook County saw an influx of settlers looking for fertile land and opportunities. The Tillamook area was known for its vast forests, which attracted logging companies and brought in new industries such as sawmills and logging camps. The timber industry continued to play a significant role in the county's economy for many years.
Agriculture has also been a vital part of Tillamook County's history. Dairy farming became prominent in the late 1800s, thanks in large part to the arrival of Swiss immigrants who introduced their expertise in cheese-making. Tillamook County quickly became known for its high-quality dairy products, especially its famous Tillamook cheese. Today, the Tillamook County Creamery Association remains one of the county's most well-known and successful agricultural enterprises.
Over time, Tillamook County has evolved from a sparsely populated area to a thriving coastal community. Its history is shaped by the interactions between Native American tribes, European explorers and settlers, the timber industry, and the agricultural sector. Today, Tillamook County continues to be a popular tourist destination, offering a blend of natural beauty, rich history, and delicious local products.
In the late 18th century, European explorers and fur trappers began to arrive in Tillamook County. In 1792, British explorer Captain George Vancouver sailed into Tillamook Bay, making him one of the first Europeans to set foot in the area. Traders soon followed, establishing a maritime fur trade along the coast.
In the mid-19th century, as Oregon was being settled by pioneers, Tillamook County saw an influx of settlers looking for fertile land and opportunities. The Tillamook area was known for its vast forests, which attracted logging companies and brought in new industries such as sawmills and logging camps. The timber industry continued to play a significant role in the county's economy for many years.
Agriculture has also been a vital part of Tillamook County's history. Dairy farming became prominent in the late 1800s, thanks in large part to the arrival of Swiss immigrants who introduced their expertise in cheese-making. Tillamook County quickly became known for its high-quality dairy products, especially its famous Tillamook cheese. Today, the Tillamook County Creamery Association remains one of the county's most well-known and successful agricultural enterprises.
Over time, Tillamook County has evolved from a sparsely populated area to a thriving coastal community. Its history is shaped by the interactions between Native American tribes, European explorers and settlers, the timber industry, and the agricultural sector. Today, Tillamook County continues to be a popular tourist destination, offering a blend of natural beauty, rich history, and delicious local products.
Tillamook County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Tillamook County, Oregon.
- The area now known as Tillamook County is inhabited by the indigenous Tillamook people for thousands of years.
- 1792 - The area is first encountered by European explorers, including Robert Gray and William Broughton.
- 1805 - The Lewis and Clark Expedition explores the area, noting its resources and native inhabitants.
- 1846 - The Oregon Treaty establishes the northern boundary of Oregon at the 49th parallel, encompassing present-day Tillamook County.
- 1851 - The first permanent settlers, the Wilson family, arrive in the area.
- 1854 - Tillamook County is officially established by the Oregon Territorial Legislature.
- 1856 - The first post office in Tillamook County is established.
- 1870 - The city of Tillamook is incorporated.
- 1889 - The Tillamook Cheese Factory is established, setting the stage for the county's dairy industry.
- 1933 - The Cape Meares Lighthouse is completed, becoming a cultural landmark in the county.
- 1955 - The Tillamook Burn, a series of devastating wildfires, destroy large portions of the county's forested areas.
- 1961 - The Tillamook Air Museum is established, showcasing the area's rich aviation history.
- 1984 - The Tillamook Forest Center is opened, providing educational resources about the county's forests and natural resources.
- 2019 - Several severe wildfires, including the Pike Road Fire, impact parts of Tillamook County.