Pendleton, OR

Pendleton, Oregon, located in Umatilla County, has a rich history dating back thousands of years to the Indigenous people who inhabited the area. The region was home to several Native American tribes, most notably the Cayuse, Umatilla, and Walla Walla tribes.

In 1868, Colonel George H. Thompson founded Pendleton as a trading post along the Oregon Trail. The town was named after his friend, Senator George H. Pendleton of Ohio. The location of Pendleton made it an ideal spot for trade, being situated at the mouth of the Umatilla River, near the important crossroads of two major Native American trails.

The town quickly grew and became known as a center for shipping livestock and grain. In 1880, the Oregon Railway and Navigation Company extended its line to Pendleton, further facilitating trade and transportation. This led to a significant population increase and a boom in economic activities.

Pendleton established itself as a vibrant and prosperous city by the late 19th century. The townscape featured several impressive buildings, including a grand hotel, opera house, and numerous storefronts. The city also became known for its wool industry, with several large mills producing woolen goods.

One of the most significant events in Pendleton's history is the creation of the Pendleton Round-Up in 1910. The Round-Up, a rodeo and western celebration, was initially organized to showcase Pendleton's position as a frontier town and promote its agricultural resources. The event gained national recognition and continues to be one of the largest and most popular rodeos in the United States.

Pendleton faced challenging times during the Great Depression, like many other communities across the country. However, the town's resilience and its strong agricultural and wool industries helped it recover and flourish in the post-war era.

Today, Pendleton is a thriving city that embraces its rich history while looking towards the future. The town remains an important center for agriculture, particularly wheat and barley production. It is also known for its textile industry, including the famous Pendleton Woolen Mills, which produces high-quality woolen products.

Pendleton's history is celebrated through its many historic buildings, museums, and annual events like the Pendleton Round-Up and the Pendleton Underground Tours, providing visitors with a glimpse into the town's vibrant past. The city's Native American heritage is also honored through cultural events and attractions, recognizing the significant contribution of indigenous communities to the area.

Pendleton Underground Tours

Explore the underground tunnels and learn about Pendleton's history during the tour.

Pendleton Woolen Mills

Visit the flagship store and learn about the history of wool production in the area.

Tamastslikt Cultural Institute

Discover the rich Native American history, art, and culture of the Cayuse, Umatilla, and Walla Walla tribes at this museum.

Pendleton Round-Up and Happy Canyon Hall of Fame

Experience the famous rodeo and visit the hall of fame to learn about the event's history.

Pendleton Center for the Arts

Enjoy art exhibitions, performances, classes, and workshops in a historic building.

Heritage Station Museum

Learn about the region's history through exhibits, artifacts, and memorabilia.

Pendleton Whisky Music Fest

If you visit during July, enjoy live music performances featuring renowned artists.

Hamley & Co.

Visit this famous saddle maker and western outfitter, established in 1883, and explore their collection of western gear.

Wildhorse Resort & Casino

Try your luck with gaming, enjoy live entertainment, or indulge in a spa treatment at this resort.

McKay Creek National Wildlife Refuge

Explore the refuge's beautiful wetlands, hike nature trails, and watch for diverse bird species.

The climate of Pendleton, Oregon is classified as a semi-arid climate with distinct four seasons. The summers tend to be hot and dry, while the winters are cool and relatively wet.

Summers in Pendleton are generally hot, with average high temperatures ranging from the mid-80s to low 90s Fahrenheit (around 29-34 degrees Celsius). However, temperatures can occasionally reach the upper 90s (around 35-37 degrees Celsius) during heatwaves. The city receives relatively low precipitation during the summer months, with July being the driest month.

Winters in Pendleton are cool, with average high temperatures hovering around the mid-40s to low 50s Fahrenheit (around 7-12 degrees Celsius). However, temperatures can drop below freezing at night, resulting in occasional snowfall. January is usually the coldest month, and the city receives the most precipitation during this time, often in the form of rain or snow.

Spring and autumn in Pendleton can vary in terms of temperature and precipitation. Springtime temperatures gradually warm up, with occasional showers. Autumn is generally mild and brings cooler temperatures, especially towards the later months. September is often the driest month during the fall.

Overall, Pendleton experiences relatively mild weather with variations throughout the year. Its semi-arid climate means that rainfall is relatively low, especially during the summer months, which can result in dry conditions.

Pendleton, Oregon, is a small city with several distinct neighborhoods. Here are some of the different neighborhoods in Pendleton:

Downtown

The heart of Pendleton, the downtown neighborhood is known for its historic buildings, including the Pendleton Round-Up Arena and the Pendleton Woolen Mills. It offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions, making it a vibrant and bustling area.

Hilltop

Located on the hillsides overlooking the city, the Hilltop neighborhood offers beautiful views of the surrounding area. It is a predominantly residential area, with a mix of single-family homes, apartments, and condominiums. Hilltop is known for its quiet streets and family-friendly atmosphere.

McKay Creek

Situated in the northern part of Pendleton, McKay Creek is a residential neighborhood with a mix of housing options. It is characterized by larger lots and more spacious properties, making it an attractive area for families and those seeking a suburban lifestyle.

Southwest

Located on the southwestern side of Pendleton, this neighborhood is home to several parks and recreational areas, including McKay Park and Sherwood Park. Southwest also offers a mix of housing options, ranging from single-family homes to townhouses, making it a diverse and attractive neighborhood for residents.

Riverside

As the name suggests, this neighborhood is located along the banks of the Umatilla River. Riverside is known for its scenic beauty, with many properties offering views of the river. It is primarily a residential area, with a mix of housing styles, including riverfront properties, making it an appealing neighborhood for those seeking a tranquil and picturesque setting.

Airport Road

Situated on the eastern side of Pendleton, this neighborhood is characterized by its proximity to the Eastern Oregon Regional Airport. It is primarily a residential area, with a mix of housing options, including single-family homes and mobile homes. Airport Road offers a quieter lifestyle, with easy access to amenities and the airport.

Each of these neighborhoods in Pendleton has its own unique charm and appeal, catering to different preferences and needs of residents. Whether you're looking for a bustling downtown area, a quiet suburban neighborhood, or a peaceful riverside setting, Pendleton has a neighborhood to suit just about anyone.