Near La Grande in Union County, Oregon — The American West (Northwest)

Wagon Wheels to Automobiles

Photographed By Barry Swackhamer, June 30, 2017

1. Wagon Wheels to Automobiles Marker

Inscription. During the mid-1800s, thousands of American emigrants labored along this ridge. Since then, stage coach, train and automobile roads have paralleled the Oregon Trail over these mountains.
Only traces of the original road remain, yet the ideals of those who crossed the continent in wagons have not been lost. As we pursue our dreams for a better life, we join the emigrants on the Oregon Trail.

"Through all our trials I cannot say that I have ever regretted that we have undertaken this journey." -- Asahel Munger, August 31. 1839

Erected by Wallow Whitman National Forest.

Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Roads & Vehicles • Settlements & Settlers. In addition, it is included in the Oregon Trail series list. A significant historical date for this entry is March 13, 1839.

Location. 45° 23.945′ N, 118° 18.912′ W. Marker is near La Grande, Oregon, in Union County. Marker can be reached from Unnamed Road (possibly Oregon Trail Road 1843) near Old Emigrant Hill Scenic Frontage Road. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: La Grande OR 97850, United States of America. Touch for directions.

Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within 8 miles of this marker, measured as the crow flies. A Native American Trail (within shouting distance of this marker); Parade of Survivors (about 500 feet away, measured

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in a direct line); On This Ridge... (about 500 feet away); A Beautiful Rough Road (about 600 feet away); Hilgard Junction Oregon Trail Kiosk (approx. 5.6 miles away); "Wagons East " 1975-1976 (approx. 5.6 miles away); Highway US30 and Perry, Oregon (approx. 7.7 miles away); Conde B. McCullough and Upper Perry Arch Bridge (approx. 7.8 miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in La Grande.

More about this marker. This marker is on the Blue Mountain Crossing Interpretive Trail at Blue Mountain Interpretive Park. To reach the park leave Interstate 84 at Exit 248 and take Old Emigrant Hill Scenic Frontage Road for about 3/4 mile, passing under the freeway, then turn right on the unnamed road. Proceed about 2.5 miles to the parking lot at the end of the road.

Photographed By Barry Swackhamer, June 30, 2017

2. Wagon Wheels to Automobiles Marker

The marker is on the left side of the path in the shadow of the trees.

Credits. This page was last revised on July 21, 2023. It was originally submitted on December 14, 2017, by Barry Swackhamer of Brentwood, California. This page has been viewed 219 times since then and 15 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on December 14, 2017, by Barry Swackhamer of Brentwood, California.