The Oakland Oregon Area
Oakland has been called "quaint", "charming", and "cute". It is all that and more - beloved by the approximately 950 people who live here, it retains an almost undiscovered small town attraction. Nestled in the heart of the Umpqua Valley, Oakland is surrounded by rich, rolling farmland, ideal for cattle, sheep, goats, horses and agriculture especially wineries.
A few miles to the east are both the Umpqua National Forest and Willamette National Forests, with lush forests of conifers, numerous creeks, lakes, and stunning outdoor recreation with Diamond Lake and Crater Lake National Park.
Some 60 miles west is the Pacific Ocean with its pristine beaches and rock outcroppings. A beautiful drive through rich green meadows, past the Dean Creek Elk Preserve, to greet the salty air of Oregon's coasts.
Oakland is the starting / ending (depending on which way you are driving or cycling) Umpqua River Scenic Byway (Oakland / Reedsport Highway 38 / 138)
Oakland is only 2 minutes off I-5 Exit 138 or 140 (North / South) only 2 miles North of Sutherlin
The local Douglas County News , The News Review and local CBS TV station keep us attuned on what is happening in Oakland & Douglas County.
Oakland History
Oakland, Oregon was the first city to be placed on the state's historic register, in May 1968 and in 1979 the Oakland Historic District was listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Applegate Trail emigrants included Rev. Joseph A. Cornwall and his family who reached this valley in 1846. By the time they reached the Oakland area, they were exhausted and built a cabin to endure the winter before continuing north in the spring. A monument is located at this site near the I-5 on-ramp North.
In 1851 Dr. Dorsey S. Baker established the region's first grist mill and town - Oakland, across Calapooya Creek from the Cornwall's cabin. Construction of the Oregon & California Railroad triggered the relocation and founding of a new town by Alonzo F. Brown in 1872. At the turn of the century, Oakland was the leading turkey shipping center in the western United States. In 1929 Oakland sponsored the first Northwestern Turkey Show - which came to be known as the largest in the world. It was here that the broad breasted bronze turkey was developed.
Oakland's Landmarks
There are many buildings and homes that have the rich history of the area displayed in a natural way, without pretense. The Oakland Businesses are like museums, the owners taking great pride in preserving the genuine antiquity for their patron's enjoyment.
The Rochester covered bridge nearby ushers you across the waters and down tree-lined country roads to enjoy the countryside or perhaps do a little wine tasting at several Umpqua Valley Wineries that distinguish the area with fine vintages.
Our Historic walking / driving tour map shows off fine homes of yesteryear and the Cemeteries are also of interest to history buffs interested in early Oregon settlement.
Stop by the Oakland Museum or City Hall and pick up your free Historic walking tour map, complete with history of the area.
Oakland's Tour of Homes
There are many fine Victorian homes in Oakland that retain the charm of the past. The owners are proud to present them in their finery to the public in our Walking Tour. An easy stroll down the quiet streets of our town and you will see why Oakland is unique.
Make an afternoon of it...pick up some sandwiches at one of our local restaurants or stop by Bart's Market and have a picnic in the park. Or enjoy a hearty lunch or dinner at one of our fine restaurants.
Chenowith Home
3rd & Walnut Sts
Built 1902
Grubbe Home
403 Oak St
Built 1880
Beckley Home
Chestnut & 2nd sts
Built 1900
The Brown Home
208 Chestnut St
Built 1888
Joseph Quant Home
234 NE 7th Street
Built 1883
Bovington Home
327 Oak St
Built 1884
WHY Historic OAKLAND Oregon?
Historic Oakland is surrounded by meadows, mountains, and rivers. Clean air & water. People are friendly and say hello on the street. A community, not just a place to live. Crime is just about non-existent. People watch out for their neighbors. Old fashioned atmosphere with over 80 buildings built in the 1890s. Quiet streets .. No traffic. Not one signal light to be found! Cost of living is low and there is no sales tax in Oregon! The quality of life is wonderful. Easy access ..2 minutes to I-5, 5 minutes to Sutherlin, 15 minutes to Roseburg, one hour to Eugene, one hour to Grants Pass (138 miles from California border) and only one hour to the coast / Reedsport along the Umpqua River Scenic Byway
