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 and 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, Oregon, 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 mining history in Oregon.
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.
Numerous homes from the town's gold mining days still stand in Jackstonville as well, like the 1854 Love House.
The Plymale House was built about a decade later in 1865 at 180 North Oregon Street.
The Jacksonville Inn started welcoming guests to this town in 1861. You can still stay here today.
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.
Jacksonville's Old City Hall was built in 1880.
The Table Rock Billiard Saloon was built in 1859 at 165 South Oregon Street. Today, it's a coffee shop.
The Masonic Hall is one of the biggest structures in town. It was built in 1875 at 175 West California Street.
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 a museum in Jacksonville, OR, 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 during the height of Oregon mining.
If you love Jacksonville, then you'll love visiting other small towns in Oregon, too!
Want to spend the night in Jacksonville, Oregon? Take a look at the charming Wine Country Inn.
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