The Bowman Museum is proud to announce the upcoming Saunders Memorial Lecture Series featuring, renowned local historian Steve Lent, who will present a fascinating lecture on the history of mining in Central Oregon. The event will take place on October 10th at the Bowman Museum offering attendees a deep dive into the rich mining history that shaped the region. Lent, will cover everything from the early gold rushes to the development of key mining operations in Crook County, providing insights into how mining influenced the area’s economy, culture, and landscape.
Mining has played a significant role in shaping the history of Central Oregon, with the discovery of gold in the 19th century sparking a rush that would lead to the development of bustling mining communities. However, the environmental impact of these activities has left a lasting mark on the region’s landscape. The history of mining in Central Oregon is a tale of both boom and bust. While the gold rush era brought prosperity and growth to early mining communities, it also left behind a significant environmental toll that continues to affect the region today. From the discovery of gold in Griffin Gulch to the formation of mining towns like Granite City and Independence, the legacy of Central Oregon’s mining past is both rich in history and marked by lasting environmental consequences.
