Deschutes County Historical Society

Overview

The Deschutes County Historical Society is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving, promoting, and celebrating the local history of Deschutes County in Oregon. It operates the Deschutes Historical Museum, which serves as a vibrant museum and community center focused on education, research, and appreciation for the area's unique history[1][2].

Mission and Activities

The society's mission is to capture and share the important stories that celebrate the shared heritage of the community through various activities. These include organizing school field trips, History Pub presentations, and exhibits that highlight the area's prehistory, Native American tribes, explorers, pioneers, and early industries such as logging and transportation[1][2]. The society also supports the digitization of historical materials and provides access to archives and exhibits[1].

Organization and Funding

The Deschutes County Historical Society has been involved in several projects funded through grants. For example, it has developed exhibits such as "Winter Comes" and "Cruisin' 97," which are part of its ongoing efforts to engage the community with local history[3]. Funding for such projects and the museum's operations can come from donations, grants, and community engagement activities[1][3].

Museum and Collections

The society's primary venue is the Deschutes Historical Museum, located in the historic Reid School building, a significant architectural landmark in Bend, Oregon. The museum features a variety of exhibits that recreate early life in the area, including displays of Native American artifacts, early American artifacts, and reconstructed environments like a 1900s classroom[4]. The museum also houses a history library and a bookstore focused on Central Oregon's history[2].