Bookend Redmond’s walking history tour with a taste of the present.

Written by Danielle Meyers

 

It takes generations to write history, but it takes just a few minutes to appreciate the work and lasting contributions of those who did. Nowhere in Central Oregon is our region’s unique history more on display than in Redmond. The city’s heritage dates to the early in the 20th century when homesteaders were inspired to take advantage of relatively inexpensive land and agricultural opportunities delivered by early irrigation systems. Today, Redmond has more than 27,000 residents and a diverse economy that includes construction, aviation and technology. But take a step back and you’ll find a community steeped in history that included entrepreneurs, pioneers and visionaries who imagined a big future for their little town. There are many businesses around town that are designated as historic landmarks, and we’ve taken the time to highlight a few fun venues worth visiting.

 

Take The Heritage Walk

Stop at City Hall and pick up a copy of the “Heritage Walk.” The guide is a tour of thirty-six buildings and residences—most of which have many of their original architectural features from the early 20th century to World War II. The guide includes maps, historic photos, descriptions of each building’s history and Redmond trivia. Locals recommend the tour be on foot, but it can be done by bicycle, scooter, long board or car. Whatever mode of transportation you choose, grab a guide and have a blast while learning about the history of Redmond.

716 SW Evergreen Ave.
Redmond, OR 97756

 

Visit the Redmond Historic Living Museum

Redmond was founded in 1904 when Frank and Josephine Redmond pitched a tent next to the Deschutes and filed a homestead claim. Two years later, many had joined the community and named the town in Frank and Josephine’s honor. Since then the town has been shaped by railroads, aviation, agriculture, lumber and industries. For an in-depth explanation on the historic perspective of Redmond visit the Redmond Historic Living Museum.

509 SW 7th Street
Redmond, Oregon 97756

 

EAT AND DRINK

Wild Ride Brewing

Take a walk on the wild side and visit the Wild Ride Brewing tasting room. Remodeled from the former Parr Lumber Warehouse in downtown Redmond, Wild Ride has a brief but effervescent history. The planning for the building renovations began in 2013 and opened its doors to the public in 2014. Ascent Architecture worked on the design for the building and created a contemporary look from the reclaimed barn wood. With an eye on the future, Wild Ride Brewing operates several brewing systems that allow them to serve an eclectic array of drafts on tap.

Soup 2 Nuts Deli

Long before Soup 2 Nuts Deli, Bill Leavitt built the first story of this brick building in 1919, to house a billiard room. In 1932, Fritz Landaker added the second and third stories for apartments, and in 1946 the building became home to the Pastime Tavern, which operated until 1993. Post 1993 the building was renovated and currently is home to Soup 2 Nuts, which coincidentally is an idiom for “from beginning to end.” There are no nuts at this corner shop but instead salads, sandwiches and pizzettas. You’ll enjoy your stop here, from soup to nuts.

What is now an outdoor recreation basecamp was once a training camp for soldiers during World War II.

Known for its draw as a year-round destination for visitors and locals alike, Sunriver has much to offer from tennis to world-class golf to access to Central Oregon’s outdoor recreation. Less well known is Sunriver’s historic role as a training base for troops in World War II, when the now familiar grounds served as Camp Abbot. The base was one of three combat engineer training centers during WWII with others in Virginia and Missouri. The base opened in 1942, and in just two years trained approximately 90,000 troops. While Camp Abbot’s contribution was significant, few signs remain of Sunriver’s military past. The notable exception is the Great Hall, an impressive native wood and stone building that served as the officer’s mess hall. Today, it is a gathering place for wedding parties and professional events, but open to the public during most hours. Venture inside and take a step back in time. Handmade railings and banisters and rough-cut joinery showcase the timeless craftsmanship that echoes other structures from the same era, such as the Timberline Lodge at Mt. Hood. It’s easy to imagine rows of uniform clad officers sitting shoulder to shoulder at communal tables enjoying a meal after a long day in the field.

See

The Sunriver Nature Center and stroll along the paths that wind through the meadows and golf courses. Now imagine the same scene a bustling military base, filled with young faces—men who had been called from all walks of life to serve their country in what was and remains, the world’s single greatest military effort.

Explore

The nearby Lava Lands Visitor Center and Lave Butte lookout. Take the $2 shuttle to the summit or follow a narrow trail through the lava field to the top where 360-degree views reveal the area’s dramatic geography.

Taste

There are many casual dining options around the Village, including the popular Sunriver Brewing Co. and Village Bar and Grill. If you want the full experience, the Lodge at Sunriver offers two options, casual dining at the Twisted River Tavern (formerly the Owl’s Nest) and fine dining at Carson’s American Kitchen.