Crooked River Bicentennial Trail offers an interactive look back at local history

The Crook County Historical Society is now offering a chance to learn about early local history while exploring the locations in which it took place. “Ever wonder what Central Oregon looked like 200 years ago? What wildlife roamed the land? Where did Native Americans live or gather to harvest salmon or other food? What were conditions like, and how did folks deal with them?” the organization asks. “Now you can find out.” The Historical Society recently announced the installation of 42 roadside signs, from Prineville to Paulina, that feature the first written description of the county’s watershed. Journal entries of Peter Skene Ogden, an expedition leader for the Hudson’s Bay Company, tell a story of the people, plants, animals and conditions found here 200 years ago. “Even better, they are placed where they were written so that you, the viewer, can read them, view the surrounding landscape, and let your imagination take hold,” the Historical Society stated.

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