History of Bend, OR
Bend is an unusual name of a very beautiful city located in the heart of the coastal state of Oregon near the Cascade Range. Positioned along the famous Deschutes River, Bend serves as the administrative center of Deschutes County. Despite its relatively small size and small but fast-growing population, Bend is the most prominent metropolis in central Oregon. According to a 2019 population estimate, Bend Oregon is home to over 100,000 residents.
The city’s name was coined from “Farewell Bend”, a term used by the city’s early settlers to refer to a ford that existed on the Deschutes River somewhere on the city’s current location. When a settlement that became today’s Bend city was established around this area, it assumed the name of the ford. The name was later changed to simply Bend by the U.S. Postal Service for simplicity.
History has it that prior to 1824, Bend and other neighboring areas were the ancestral lands belonging to Native American tribes. The thick forest around the Deschutes River was very favorable for the natives because they mainly relied on hunting and fishing. Canadian Explorer and fur trader Peter Skene Ogden led the first group of visitors in the area in 1824. He was closely followed by several other survey parties that preceded the arrival of the first group of non-native settlers. This group waded their way through the river at the so-called Farewell Bend and settled on the far west end of the city.
Industrialization in this new settlement began in 1901 when a mill was constructed in the area by a local development company. Another mill was set up two years later next to the Deschutes River and near what is now known as Pioneer Park. Modern-day Bend city started out as a simple settlement around this water-powered mill in 1904. The city’s incorporation took place that same year after its 300 residents voted in favor of the incorporation.
When Deschutes County came into being, the well-established Bend city was picked as its administrative headquarters; the city continues to bear this privilege. Today, what started as a simple settlement around a river is now one of the most outstanding and fastest-growing metropolises in Oregon. The city has evolved to become a popular recreational hub for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Bend has also emerged as one of the most prized suburban communities in Oregon and the nation at large.
And while you’re doing research on the history of Bend, OR, if you’re ever in need of Bend Oregon roofers, we’re here to help. Schedule an appointment or give us a call today. We look forward to hearing from you!
