If you plan to be in Burns, Oregon (located in Harney County) any time soon, you won't want to miss visiting our wonderful museum and gift shop!
Many cases in the museum were donated and filled with artifacts from pioneer families of Harney County.
- New Peterson Estate display
- Local pioneer and cattle baron Pete French display
- Diorama of local bird species
- Northern Paiute Artifacts
- Edward Hines Lumber Co. display
- Jessie's Pioneer Kitchen display
- Early medical and dental equipment display
- Wagons, carriages, farm implements
- Much, much more!
In addition, we can provide information to help you in the following pursuits:
- Geneology
- Research
- Pioneer cemetery searches
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June 13, 2009
Pioneer Day
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June 19-21, 2009
Music Jamboree (Old Time Fiddlers)
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August 13, 2009
Open House at the Museum and Harney County Library
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September 8-13, 2009
Harney County Rodeo
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.
