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Free Traveling Guides » States » Oregon » Greater Oregon
Pendleton
Pendleton is well-known in Oregon. Mainly famous for its yearly Roundup, the city is a cow town that is set right in the middle of the steep hills by the side of Umatilla River, in the heart of a huge ranching and agricultural area.
In 1840, settlers passed by Pendleton while they were wandering on the Oregon Trail. It is among the largest towns located in Umatilla's county seat and eastern Oregon. It is the chief trading center for green pea production and heavy wheat that comes from the nearby Umatilla county region.
Pendleton Woolen Mills are very famous here. They were started by Thomas Kay for weaving blankets for the Indians in 1909.
The blankets are produced in the city even today. Men’s and Women’s sportswear is famous too. The high-tech tours of the industrial units start with personal headsets for guests. You can watch the spinning machines and the automatic looms that weave extraordinary designs.
A major attraction in Pendleton is its underground tunnels that were designed by the Chinese. These tunnels cover more than 70 miles (112.6km) distance. In 1989, these tunnels became the main route for the transportation that helped in development of the city.
In 1989, some of these tunnels were restored and exhibits and mannequins were used to recreate the businesses that used to be located there. These businesses included ice plants, butcher shops, Chinese laundries, illegal saloons, bordellos, and opium dens.
One can take the tour and learn all about Pendleton's wild past. An above ground "Cozy Room" tour takes you to Miss Stella's bordello and boarding house. A notable fact is that in the past, Pendleton's population of 3,000 once supported as many as 18 bordellos and 32 saloons.
Rodeo fans will enjoy the Round-up Hall of Fame, which is located under the South Grandstands of the Rodeo Grounds. It features the history of the Pendleton Roundup, one of America's largest and oldest rodeos, as well as cowboy and Indian memorabilia. Train buffs should visit the Umatilla County Historical Society Museum, located in Pendleton's 1909 train depot. Displays include historic photographs, memorabilia of the area's sheep industry and wool mills, local Indian artifacts, and even a working railroad telegraph system.
The brick front downtown storefronts and beautiful Queen Anne homes of nearby residential area transport you to the Western era. The friendly hospitality of the locals will make you want to stay here and enjoy the Wild West flavor of Pendleton.
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