The End of The Oregon Trail

Oregon City, Oregon

"Listen... here on the banks of the Willamette River, at the end of the Oregon Trail. Listen carefully. For you need only the wind, and a little imagination, to hear the voices of that multitude," from "The Spirit Lives On!"

In 1843 several hundred American from the Midwest sold their farms, closed their business and packed u their families and few personal possessions to journey 2,000 miles to the Oregon country. These pioneers were the beginning, the first trickle, of the single largest land migration in history.

Over the next three decades, more than 300,000 people would cross the vast plains, travel over the Rocky Mountains and the Continental Divide, and struggle through Oregon's diverse terrain to reach Oregon City and the End of the Oregon Trail.

Hear stories of decisions, preparations and life on the trail as Trail Guides recreate life in the 1840's.

The End of the Oregon Trail interpretive Center tells the compelling story by combining live history presentations, a mixed media show about the trail journey and exhibits of artifacts and heirlooms from the trail.

"Sell off your land. Gather your oxen. Elect your captains, Pack your dreams." Feel the struggle of the journey in "The Spirit Lives On!" a mixed media dramatization.

Discover the wonder of the past. The land of promise beckoned pioneer emigrants who sought to escape the ravages of disease and economic hardships. Oregon's mild climates and fertile farm land offered hope for a better life for those willing to make the journey. And the land was free for the taking!

See unique Oregon Trail artifacts that provide a glimpse of daily life 150 years ago.

Browse through the Museum Store which offers special heritage items and Northwest handcrafts.

"You, you who brought your hearts and souls across a continent, your spirit still moves us. At the End of the Oregon Trail, there's a journey that never ends."

Experience life in 1860's Oregon City through demonstrations and hands-on activities in the new Willamette Trades and Craft Workshop.

Oregon City was the destination for the pioneers. Here they filed land claims and reprovisioned their supplies to start their new lives in this "land at Eden's Gate". The modern history of the Pacific Northwest had begun  in 1859 Oregon became the 33rd state in America.

Learn about the native American who first lived in the areas. See living examples of early pioneer life in The Heritage Gardens.

The End of the Oregon Trail Interpretive Center is located in Oregon City, officially designated the true End of the Oregon National Historic Trail. The site for the Center is Abernethy Green, the main arrival area for emigrants. The 8.5 acre site features three 50-foot high covered wagon-shaped buildings, an outdoor amphitheater and Heritage Gardens. The George Abernethy & Co. Merchandise museum store can be visited free of charge and features a variety of Northwest handcrafts and heritage items.

On summer evenings, the Center's outdoor stage resonates with the joyous sounds of music, dance and drama as the Oregon Trail Pageant brings exciting scenes of Oregon history to life.

Show times: subject to change

All shows are guided - hours are subject to change

Summer Hours

May 23 - September 13 - Mon-Sat 9am - 5pm Sunday- 10am - 5pm

Summer Show times

Monday Through Saturday

(1) 10:00 (2) 10:45 (3) 11:30 (4) 12:15 (5) 1:00 (6) 1:45 (7) 2:30 (8) 3:30

Sundays

(1) 10:45 (2) 11:30 (3 ) 12:15 (4) 1:00 (5) 1:45 (6) 2:30 (7) 3:30

Winter

September 14- May 22, Mon-Sat 9 am - 5 pm, Sunday 10 am - 5 pm

Winter Show Times - subject to change

Monday Through Saturday

(1) 10 (2) 11 (3) 1 (4) 2 (5) 3:30

Sundays

(1) 11 (2) 12 (3) 1 (4) 2 (5) 3:30

Admission Fees - subject to  change

Adults - $5.50

Children 5 to 12 - $3.00

Children under 5 - Free

Seniors 65 and over - $4.50

Group rates available

Call the Center (503) 657-9936

Tickets available in person at all Ticketmaster locations and at The End of the Oregon Trail.

1726 Washington Street, Oregon City, OR, 97045

Visit their website at - www.teleport.com/~eotic