grant county historical museum

I happened to notice a sign on the left side of Hwy 395 while riding my touring motorcycle southbound out of the town of John Day. Curiousity got the best of me, so I turned around and parked in front of what appeared to be a museum. There was a small fee to see the museum. OMG ! What a Museum ! It has everything imaginable relating to the town's earlier times in history. I would estimate that there are approximately 400 items on desplay: Old medical equipment; early typewriters; early clothing; early sewing machines; early telephone exchange equipment; early office equipment...almost too many items to mention here. Everything is in good condition. The displays are a view into the past of this town. This is one of the most interesting museums I've visited in probably 20 years. I don't believe they could have squeezed anything more into the three rooms of that museum. This is one place you have to stop and see if passing through the Oregon town of John Day. I'd give it a 6 Star Rating if that were possible!

Of the five museums that we visited in the John Day area, this is the one that my teenage granddaughter didn't want to leave. The docent was extremely knowledgeable and helpful, a number of the exhibits were interactive - my granddaughter was entranced reading ledgers - and the location is very welcoming. Located in Canyon City Park it is surrounded by trees and beautiful murals with free parking.