The Applegate Trail passed through Southern Oregon along the route of present day Main Street in Roseburg. An Historical Marker is located on Main Street just north of Douglas Avenue. The Applegate Trail, sometimes referred to as the Southern Road, was opened in 1846. It was intended to serve as an alternate way of reaching the western valleys of the Oregon Territory while avoiding the perils of the Oregon Trail along the Columbia River route. The Applegate Trail remained in use until well into the 1880's.

Covered Bridges

The covered-bridge-building tradition dates back to the 1850s.  Out of materials that were readily available such as the Douglas Fir, which was abundant in western Oregon and well-suited for bridge construction.  House-type structures were constructed over the top of the timber trusses to protect them from the damp western Oregon climate and increase their longevity.  The covered bridge blended well into the early economy of the Oregon countryside. There are six covered bridges in the Land of Umpqua.  For a brochure, contact the Roseburg Area Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center.

The award-winning Douglas County Museum of History and Natural History is located at I-5 exit #123 one mile south of Roseburg. The museum's displays offer a fun and exciting learning adventure. 2002 marked Douglas County's Sesquicentennial. Enjoy a special Museum exhibit on the first 150 years of Douglas County. Open Tuesday-Saturday 10 am-5 pm. Admission charged. Tours available. Call 541-957-7007.

Historic Homes and Districts

Roseburg and several surrounding communities provide a glimpse into the past as you enjoy visiting their historic structures and districts. A descriptive brochure of Historical Tours of Roseburg homes and buildings is available at the Roseburg Area Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center. Floed Lane House at 544 SE Douglas Ave is open to the public Saturdays and Sundays from 1-4 pm free of charge.  For more information contact the Douglas County Historical Society.

Oakland Historic District

Oakland was the first city in Oregon to establish an Historic District (1968). Located 15 miles north of Roseburg, Oakland was once a thriving agricultural and shipping center. The community now welcomes visitors to experience historic buildings, homes, pioneer cemeteries, antique, art and gift shops, fine dining restaurant and the Oakland Museum.

Umpqua Lighthouse & Museum

Protecting Pacific travelers & traders for more than a century, the graceful Umpqua River Lighthouse stands as a sentinel of history above the ever shifting sands of Oregon's dunes and crashing waves of beautiful Winchester Bay.  Climb the spiral staircase and experience its unique 1st order red and white Fresnal lens, or wander through the museum located in the historic former U.S. Coast Guard Station.  Located off Highway 101, 6 miles south of Reedsport, open May-October with tours daily 10 am-4 pm.  Call 541 271-4631.