One of the Oldest House in Oregon Still Stands Strong After 170+ Years

The Applegate House stands as a testament to Oregon’s vibrant history and pioneering spirit. Located in Yoncalla, Oregon, this house is one of the oldest houses in Oregon still owned by descendants of its original builders.

The first homestead was built in 1852 by Charles and Melinda Applegate.

In this article, you will delve into the historical significance of the Applegate House, its modern-day role, and its accessibility to the public. Additionally, discover other things to do in the area to make your trip complete.

A Glimpse into Oregon’s History

The Applegate House is inseparable from the legacy of the Applegate family. The Applegates played a pivotal role in the westward expansion during the 19th century. It all began with three Applegate brothers – Charles, Jesse, and Lindsay. The three embarked on a journey westward from Missouri via the Oregon Trail in 1843.

Tragically, Lindsay’s son, Warren, and Jesse’s son, Edward, lost their lives in a harrowing accident. They drowned in the treacherous waters of the Columbia River during the journey.

In response to this heart-wrenching loss, the two brothers joined a scouting crew tasked with exploring the Applegate Trail.

The trail aimed to provide a safer route to the Oregon Territory. A route that would spare others the same tragic fate that had fallen their own families. Meanwhile, Charles Applegate remained behind to tend to the family and their land.

Through a series of donation land claims, the Applegate brothers established their settlements in the picturesque Yoncalla Valley.

Over time, Lindsay Applegate moved further south, settling near Ashland. However, the Applegate family’s roots in the Yoncalla Valley have remained firmly planted since 1849.

For tourists and history buffs, the Jesse Applegate sign is a noteworthy stop west of Yoncalla. The home is located on the main highway through town. This sign provides a comprehensive overview of Jesse Applegate’s local accomplishments, which include serving as a statesman and postmaster.

Preserving the Past: Applegate House Today

Today, the Applegate House is not merely a relic of Oregon’s past; it serves as a living testament to the history of the region.

The house is maintained and safeguarded by the descendants of Charles and Melinda Applegate, who continue to reside in Yoncalla. Their unwavering dedication ensures that this historical gem retains its original character and charm.

The Applegate House has evolved into a hub of cultural and educational activities, thanks to the nonprofit organization, Applegate House Heritage Arts and Education.

This organization is the steward of the house, responsible for organizing various programs and events throughout the year. Its primary mission is to share the rich historic legacy of the Charles and Melinda Applegate home, established in 1852.

These events include a wide range of themes, including the exploration of the early pioneer era and the culture of the local Komemma Kalapuya Indian tribe.

While the house remains closed to the public for most of the year, it opens its doors during special events, tours, and teas, allowing visitors to step back in time and immerse themselves in the history of Oregon’s early settlers.

One such event is the annual Christmas Holiday Tea on the second Sunday in December. This event provides a warm and inviting setting in which to enjoy the festive season while surrounded by the historical splendor of the Applegate House.

Where is The Applegate House Located on a Map?

The Charles and Melinda Applegate House is located in Yoncalla, Oregon. It holds the title of being the oldest known residential home in Oregon, which has been continuously owned by the same family since its construction.

Here it is on a map:

No Easy Feat: Preservation and Upkeep

Maintaining a historical treasure like the Applegate House is no small feat.

Houses on historical registers require meticulous care and attention to detail to maintain their original character and structural integrity. The descendants of Charles and Melinda Applegate, along with the Applegate House Heritage Arts and Education organization, understand the importance of this responsibility.

Regular upkeep includes maintaining the structural integrity of the house, preserving its historical artifacts, and ensuring that the property remains true to its 19th-century roots.

The grounds surrounding the house are open to guests during tours, with interpretive panels scattered around to provide insights into the history and significance of the house and its surroundings.

Surrounding Areas

Yoncalla is a small community conveniently located along the I-5 corridor in Western Oregon.

Local parks offer a great place to have a picnic, hike or watch birds. You can pick up some great food at Yoncalla Deli. Their great hospitality caters to eat-in or carry out and they are centrally located on Main Street (closed on Sundays).

A short drive to the north or south along I-5 will bring you to Eugene or Sutherlin for more options including museums, parks, and other restaurants.

The Applegate House in Yoncalla, Oregon, is more than just a building; it is a living piece of history. Standing since 1852, it proudly represents the Applegate family’s enduring connection to the region and the legacy of Oregon’s pioneers. Today, the house thrives as an educational and cultural hub, sharing its rich history with the public during special events, tours, and teas.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Visitor7, CC BY-SA 3.0 – License / Original