Happy TravellerWelcome to Oregon, Ohio, a charming lakefront suburb of Toledo located on the shores of Lake Erie. With a population of just under 20,000, Oregon is often overlooked in favor of its larger neighbors, but this hidden gem boasts a rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and a variety of attractions that make it a must-visit destination for any traveler. Join us as we uncover the many treasures of Oregon, Ohio and reveal why this enchanting city should be on every traveler’s bucket list.
== History ==
Oregon was once part of the Great Black Swamp, a rich area with oak, hickory, ash, walnut, elm, and maple trees. The harvested forests created rich farmland, but the area remained swampy and there was a need for storm drainage. Major ditches were constructed, usually along roadways that followed the path of old Indian trails. These ditches continue to provide storm drainage today, carrying storm water into Maumee Bay. The town was named Oregon by Pierre M. Irving, a nephew of Washington Irving, author of the popular book Astoria. This book attracted considerable interest in John Jacob Astor’s trading lands which were located in what is now the city of Oregon. The story, however, is an account of Astor’s fur trading in the territory of Oregon; but since the nephew was representing Astor’s interest in fur trading east of the Maumee River, he succeeded in having the town named Oregon. In 1838, Mr. Irving, accompanied by his wife, went to New York expecting to remain there for the summer; but for some reason he never returned. The first government was Oregon Township, formed in 1838. The land was surveyed and there were public sales for settlements. The area that was the township is now the City of Oregon, which is bounded on the west by the City of Toledo, the North by Maumee Bay/Lake Erie, on the east by Jerusalem Township (Lucas County) and on the South by the City of Northwood (Wood County).
== Attractions ==
Perhaps the most well-known attraction in Oregon is the Sundance Drive-In, one of the last in the region. Pearson Park, within the city limits, and Maumee Bay State Park, have preserved or re-created sections of the original Black Swamp topography and forest. The state park also offers a waterfront resort off Lake Erie, and features a links golf course that has held numerous U.S. Open local qualifiers. Its location at the confluence of major migration routes brings birdwatchers and hunters to nearby shoreland areas. Boating and fishing on Lake Erie are popular pursuits. The city sponsors an extensive softball and baseball recreation program. The annual ethnic German American festival draws over 30,000 people each year.
== Fire Department ==
The City of Oregon is a growing community and is the second largest city in Lucas County, with approximately 20,000 citizens, covering 30 square miles. The City has mutual aid pacts with all Lucas County, the Ottawa County Fire Departments, and the Ohio Fire Chiefs Emergency Response Plan. The Oregon Fire Department was organized in 1936 and has been growing ever since. The City provides a combination Fire Department with three fire stations. A new 21,000 sq. ft. Central Fire Station opened at 1040 Wynn Rd. in November 2022. This station replaced Station #41, located at 5002 Seaman Rd. Station 42 is at 1102 S. Wheeling, and Station 43 is at 4421 Bayshore Road. The Fire Administration office is located at the new Station 41 on Wynn Road. In 2021, the Oregon Fire Department answered 3,983 runs. Fifteen full-time firefighters/medics, six full-time firefighters/EMTs and 41 part-time firefighters/EMTs are led by a full-time Chief, a full-time Assistant Chief, who also serves as the Chief of Fire Prevention, a full-time Deputy Chief, four full-time Battalion Chiefs, and two part-time Battalion Chiefs. The Fire department also employs a full-time administrative assistant. The City operates Lucas County EMS Life Squad 8 (Advanced Life Support) out of Station 41. Additionally, the on-duty crews and Battalion Chief operate out of the new Central Fire Station, Station 41, staffing two Medic units and an Engine or Truck. Paid per-call
