Before the museum was erected, its relics were confined to storage in the County Courthouse basement.  Now, thanks to the efforts of Harney County collectors and pioneer families, they are no longer in storage but on display.  

The museum site itself has a wealth of history.  Referred to as "Brewery Hill," the site has had many owners and many uses.  In addition to being a brewery, it also served as a laundry and wrecking yard.

Mrs. Clara Cameron Hanley purchased the site in 1940.  She bequeathed the property to her sister, Mrs. Anna Cameron Cater in 1954.  In 1956, Mrs. Cater signed a contract with the Harney County Historical Society donating 10 lots and $10,000.  The money was placed in escrow to be matched in two years by the citizens of the county.

After many generous gifts from the county's citizens, businesses and organizations, the museum and clubroom were dedicated August 2, 1960.  The addition of a second story was completed in 1987.

Mission Statement

P.A.S.T.

Preserving Artifacts

for Sharing & Teaching

~~~~~~~~~~

"Elkanah, 3 1/2 year old son of Elisha and Paulina Packwood, died near Harney Lake; was buried near the lake; next morning, the wagons were driven over the grave, erasing all traces of its existence."

--Unknown Author

1853

In the early years of the Oregon Trail there were three wagon trains that came through this area, which later became Harney County.

These people were wanting a shorter route to the central and southern areas of the Willamette Valley in Western Oregon.

Leaders of these wagon trains were Stephen Meek (1845), Elijah Elliott (1853) and William Macy (1854).

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Harney County Historical Society and Museum

18 West "D" Street | Burns, OR  97720 | (541) 573-5618 | Fax:  (541) 573-5618 | HCHS@burnsmuseum.com

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