The Fascinating Story of How Medford Became Southern Oregon's Biggest City
Medford is Southern Oregon's largest city today, but it didn't even exist 150 years ago. The city's story is one of railroads, orchards, and a decision that changed everything for the Rogue Valley. Understanding Medford's past helps us appreciate the vibrant community we have today.
How the Railroad Created a City
In 1883, the Oregon and California Railroad was building south through Oregon. Everyone expected the tracks to go through Jacksonville, which was the county seat and most important city in the area. But when Jacksonville refused to pay the railroad company $25,000, everything changed.
The railroad decided to build five miles east instead, creating a brand new town in December 1883. David Loring, the railroad's engineer, named it Medford after his hometown area in Massachusetts. The first train arrived on January 18, 1884, and the city was officially incorporated on February 24, 1885.
This decision transformed the valley. Medford had the railroad, and Jacksonville didn't. Within a few decades, the new city would become more important than the old gold rush town.
The Amazing Orchard Boom
Between 1900 and 1910, something incredible happened. Medford grew by 392 percent, making it the third fastest-growing city in the entire nation. More than 8,840 people called Medford home by 1910.
This growth happened because of fruit. The railroad allowed farmers to ship their pears, apples, and peaches to markets across the country. Southern Oregon's climate was perfect for growing fruit, especially sweet Comice pears.
The Orchard Boom attracted wealthy people from places like Chicago, including:
- Mrs. Potter Palmer, a famous socialite who developed the Modoc Orchards
- H. Chandler Egan, a national golf champion who built Southern Oregon's first golf course
- College-educated businesspeople who created social clubs like the University Club and Colony Club
These newcomers promoted Medford as a great place to make money growing fruit. The city earned the nickname "Pear Blossom City" because of its famous pear orchards.
Growing into a Regional Center
As Medford grew, it gained more importance in the region:
Major milestones in Medford's history:
- 1917: Pacific Highway completed through the city
- 1924: Owens-Oregon Lumber Company founded, starting the timber industry
- 1927: County seat moved from Jacksonville to Medford
- 1942: Camp White military base built, bringing thousands of soldiers
- 1967: Interstate 5 completed next to downtown
The timber industry became huge in the 1920s. Companies like Medford Corporation (Medco) made the city a major wood products producer. Famous businesses like Harry & David also started here, shipping gift boxes of local pears around the world.
By 1950, Medford's population had grown to more than 17,000 people. Today, over 85,000 people live in Medford, making it Oregon's eighth-largest city.
When was Medford founded?
Medford was founded in December 1883 when the railroad decided to build through the area. The first train arrived in January 1884.
Why is it called Medford?
David Loring, the railroad engineer, named it after Medford, Massachusetts, which was near his hometown of Concord, Massachusetts.
What made Medford grow so fast?
The railroad and fruit industry caused rapid growth. Between 1900 and 1910, Medford became the third fastest-growing city in America because farmers could ship fruit to big markets.
When did Medford become the county seat?
Medford became Jackson County's seat in 1927, taking over from Jacksonville. The railroad's decision to bypass Jacksonville in 1883 eventually led to this change.
What industries were most important to early Medford?
Fruit growing (especially pears) and timber were Medford's biggest industries. Companies like Harry & David and various lumber companies made the city prosperous and gave people jobs.
