• The new Guide to Oregon Historical Markers & Heritage Trees Brochure is here!
• Sitka Spruce at Klootchy Creek broken, but unbowed

Oregon!

…A land filled with wonder and majesty sculpted by glacial and volcanic activity. A land that has drawn people for over 10,000 years-people who have left their legacy through stories of adventure, discovery, hardship and prosperity, simple daily life, community, and communion with the land. We invite you to set out on an adventure of your own by exploring Oregon’s heritage through its Historical Markers and Heritage Trees.

Historical Markers

Oregon’s Historical Markers have a history of their own. Many were built by the Oregon Department of Transportation in the 1940’s, 50’s and 60’s. They are majestic, routed wood signs made from native Port Orford cedar and routed by master craftsmen. When the Travel Information council adopted the program in 1991, signs had not been built for many years and many were suffering the effects of Oregon’s climate. The Travel Information Council is currently restoring old markers with the assistance of dedicated volunteers. Recent markers tell their tales through panels of colorful text and graphics mounted on cedar frames and posts. Old and new markers not only tell the stories of Oregon, they reflect the changing perspective of Oregon history.

Heritage Trees

Oregon is renowned for its magnificent trees, and its heritage is reflected in both native and imported species. We have trees that flourished during the time of the dinosaurs (early Mesozoic) and those that were brought as nuts or seedlings by settlers along the Oregon Trail. For centuries our economic prosperity and social customs have been intertwined with the trees among which we live.

The Heritage Tree Program is the first state-sponsored heritage tree program in the country. It was begun in 1995 under the auspices of the Travel Information Council by a dedicated group of individuals. The program was established to increase public awareness of the important contribution of trees to Oregon’s history and the significant role they play in the quality of our daily life.There is much to explore and see. We hope you enjoy your journey through Oregon’s past and present.

Oregon Sesquicentennial

Oregon Celebrates 150 years of statehood in 2009.

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