July History Pub: Stink Water or Mountain Spring Water: A Century of Bend’s Water System

by Tracy Alexander | Jul 2, 2026

In 1923, Bend’s source for drinking water, the Deschutes River, was condemned by the state of Oregon as “unfit for human consumption.” What were the citizens of Bend to do? Would they filter it or look for a new supply? What would it cost, and who...

History Bricks

by Kelly Cannon-Miller | May 6, 2026

History Bricks Its LEGO™ meets history this July 4th as we celebrate America’s 250th by exploring historic landmarks of Deschutes County. We are inviting community members to explore, learn about, and recreate the distinctive architectural landscape of historic...

History Pub: About Scott Joplin and the Ragtime Spaces of Deschutes County: 1900-1918

by Tracy Alexander | May 6, 2026

When Bend became a city in 1905, ragtime music by Midwesterner Scott Joplin and other African American composers dominated entertainment venues across the US. Even in Deschutes County, Oregon, ragtime enlivened town life for at least 20 years, proving unexpected ties...

Property Research Workshop- What Was At That Address?

by Editor | Apr 8, 2026

The most asked questions at the museum are often those pertaining to property. “When was my home built? Who lived in my house? What was here when…?” Join Vanessa Ivey, Museum Manager, as she leads a Property Research Workshop-“What Was At That Address?”...

Reflections of History: An Architectural Walking Tour

by Editor | Apr 2, 2026

REFLECTIONS OF HISTORY: An Architectural Walking Tour Stroll through the Drake Park Neighborhood Historic District and go back in time when walking was the thing to do and neighborhoods were all about proximity to town. Participants will be introduced to the...