Welcome to Pilot Rock, Oregon, a small community located about fifteen miles south of Pendleton at the base of the Blue Mountains.
Pilot Rock was named for a prominent basalt formation that early travelers used as a navigational landmark. Long before road signs and GPS, the rock helped guide people traveling through this part of northeastern Oregon.
In this video, we explore Pilot Rock’s streets and learn about the town’s history. Established during the 1860s, the community developed as a trading and supply center for the surrounding farms and ranches. Its post office opened in 1868, and Pilot Rock incorporated in 1902.
The arrival of the Umatilla Central Railroad in 1907 connected the town with regional markets and helped transport grain, livestock, lumber, supplies and passengers. During the twentieth century, timber and the Pilot Rock Lumber Company became important parts of the local economy.
Today, Pilot Rock has approximately 1,300 residents. Agriculture, ranching and wood products remain closely connected to this working Eastern Oregon community.
Join me as we visit Pilot Rock, Oregon—a small town with a name inspired by one of the region’s natural landmarks.
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Do you live in Pilot Rock, or have memories of visiting the town? Please share your stories in the comments.
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