Historic Jacksonville Oregon

Jacksonville was originally named Table Rock City because of the view of two mesa about 10 miles away. Renamed Jacksonville once the county was established, it emerged from the mining campsites and thrived to become the county seat and the largest city in Oregon. Settlers found the Rogue Valley to be a desirable place to establish land claims with the hope of earning a living as farmers and ranchers.

Among those drawn to the area was Peter Britt. His search of gold eventually gave way to a passion to chronicle the times. Using his talents as a photographer he captured the lives, the landscapes and the legends of the day. His former estate is now home to the Britt Festival– a summer long concert series.

Another Jacksonville pioneer was Cornelius C. Beekman. He also started his career in gold prospecting, but eventually established Oregon’s first bank. You can hear more about his story on select Saturdays during the summer when you can tour his home. Click here for additional Pioneer Profiles.

Jacksonville was once the largest town in Oregon Territory. That is until the railroad bypassed the town in 1884. Jacksonville fought to remain the county seat, however the boom was over and businesses and residents moved away. Over the next 50 years, most relocated to Medford with its railroad stop.

Most of Jacksonville is now a National Historic Landmark due to the preservation of so many of these buildings. At first it was preservation by neglect due to lack of economic incentive. Then, in the 1960’s folks who appreciated what Jacksonville was banded together to prevent the interstate from coming through town. That was the start of focusing on preservation efforts, leading to the National Historic Landmark designation.

With over 100 structures included in the National Register of Historic Places, now residents are proud to help maintain the town and its history. You can take a virtual tour.