Jackson County

Jackson County was created on January 12, 1852 from the southwest portion of Lane County and the unorganized area south of Douglas County. It originally included land that was later divided out to create portions of Coos, Curry, Josephine, Klamath and Lake Counties. Just like the majority of southern Oregon, the discovery of gold, along with the completion of a wagon trail, known as the Applegate Trail, connecting Jackson County with California to the south and Douglas County to the north, is what originally brought settlers to the Jackson county area. In 1856 the western portion of Jackson County was separated out to form Josephine County.

Jackson County was named for the seventh president of the United States, Andrew Jackson. The county is currently made up of 11 incorporated cities and 34 unincorporated communities. The largest city is Medford and has been the county seat since 1927. Jacksonville was designated as the original county seat in 1853. The decline of gold mining and the construction of the Oregon/California Railroad through Medford brought on the suggestion of moving the county seat. Jacksonville was able to fend off the moving of the county seat until 1927 when it became very apparent that Jacksonville’s commerce had been in a steady decline for years while Medford’s commerce continued to grow.

    

For some great stories about the history of Jackson County, check out this link:

http://wrightarchives.blogspot.com/search/label/Reelfoot-%20The%20Last%20Grizzly

The Rogue River is a major attraction to the Jackson County area. The Rogue River is world renowned for its fishing opportunities, white water rafting, kayaking, and hiking trails.

Boating ** Theatre ** Jet Boat Excursions **Kayaking ** Rafting ** Camping ** Fishing ** Vineyards ** Bicycling ** Historical Monuments ** Museums ** Golf ** Hiking