Few People Realize How Much Mining History Is Preserved In The Small Town Of Jacksonville, Oregon
By Christy Articola|Published April 17, 2023
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Christy Articola
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Christy Articola has lived in Colorado since 2013 and considers herself a Centennial State enthusiast and expert through and through. She's based in Denver metro, but over the past decade, she has traveled to every corner, river, village, park, town, and city in the state and continues to explore it deeper and further whenever she can. Christy simply can't get enough of Colorado, and loves sharing all her adventures with you through Only In Your State! She graduated with a degree in journalism from Fordham University and is thrilled to be working as a full time travel writer for this and other sites - she finally found her perfect niche - and is so grateful for that.
Oregon is a state that is rich in history. One of the most historical towns in the state is Jacksonville, which is just west of Medford. This small town was founded after gold was discovered in Jackson Creek between 1851-1852, and it grew quickly from there. Today, there are around 3,000 residents. The Jacksonville Historic District was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1966; it includes 108 historic buildings. Some of these buildings were built back in the 1850s, so if you want to get a real feel for mining history in Oregon, you should make a point to visit Jacksonville to see them. You’ll love this beautiful and historic place.
When Oregon became a state in 1859, Jacksonville was the largest trade center in the state. However, the population began to decline when the railroad passed this town in 1880. Fortunately, the people of Jacksonville realized how special their hometown was even then. Buildings from this city's very beginnings have always been preserved, and today, Jacksonville is a draw for anyone who wants to learn about Oregon history.
In this town, there are historic buildings everywhere you look. It's easy to imagine the people who came here to find gold living in these properties and visiting the businesses inside these old buildings. The Brunner Building is one of Jacksonville's earliest examples. It was built in 1855 at 170 South Oregon Street.
The Bella Union Saloon was built the next year in 1856 at 170 West California Street. It's still in operation today - under different owners, of course.
The United States Hotel was built in 1880 at 125 East California Street. It's no longer a hotel, but it was a U.S. Bank branch for 65 years until 2021.
The Jackson County Courthouse was built in 1883 when Jacksonville was still the county seat of Jackson County. Today, the county seat is in Medford. This building housed the Jacksonville Museum until 2006.
As you can see, there are lots of amazing, historic, well-preserved buildings to view and explore in Jacksonville, Oregon. You’ll love visiting this small town and learning about what life was like when gold was the biggest thing happening in Oregon.
