BAKER CITY, Oregon__The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is hosting several special interpretive programs throughout July for visitors at the National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center, providing lots of opportunities for visitors and families to enjoy the outdoors and learn about the old west during their summer vacations. With these presentations, the BLM invites visitors of all ages to learn how public lands connect them to America’s natural and cultural heritage.
July 1, 2 & 3 – Folk Musician Hank Cramer performs music and tells stories from the old west at 11 a.m., 12:30 p.m. and 2 p.m., daily.
July 14 & 15 – Michael “Bad Hand” Terry presents his program “People of the Plains,” discussing history and traditions of Plains Indians, and his research and work in producing authentic replicas of tools, dress, and equipment of the Plains tribes. He will be in the Leo Adler Theater, from 10:30 a.m. to noon and 1:30 to 4 p.m.
July 15 & 16 – Blacksmith Gary Lewis demonstrates historic metal working techniques of the frontier era from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. each day
July 28 & 29 – Western singer Mary Kaye performs her “Spirit of the West” program with songs about the people, history, culture and landscapes that define this region Saturday, July 29 at 11 a.m., 12:30 p.m. and 2 p.m. in the Leo Adler Theater. Evening concert at 6:30 p.m. on Friday, July 28th (outside, weather permitting).
July 6, 13, & 20 – The Thursday Outdoor Club offers learning activities for youngsters to hone outdoor skills from 1 to 2 p.m.
Throughout the month, staff interpreters will offer a variety of living history programs, outdoor cooking demonstrations, history hikes, and gold panning along with demonstrations to help visitors learn about regional geology, frontier life ways, and outdoor skills. Contact the interpretive center for the daily schedule.
The Bureau of Land Management National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center is located five miles east of Baker City, Oregon, on Highway 86. Take Exit 302 from I-84. The Center is currently open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. Admission for adults is $8 and $4.50 for seniors; children 15 and under are admitted for free. Federal passes are also accepted. Call 541.523.1843 for updates on programs and events or visit oregontrail.blm.gov.
