What does it take to thrive for five decades in Central Oregon? It’s questions like this that we at Black Butte Ranch ask ourselves as we commemorate our 50th Anniversary in the year 2020. One thing we know for sure is that our resort in Oregon would not be nearly as successful if not for the love and support of our wonderful guests throughout the years. 

Looking Back at the Makings of Central Oregon Landscape

Our location in Deschutes County features remarkable mountain views, pristine waterways, and lush forestry that keeps people coming back time and time again. The beautiful Black Butte, our Ranch’s namesake, formed nearly a million years ago from a combination of violent volcanos and earthquakes. The largest spring on our premises, Paulina Springs, is an indirect result of volcanic mountains. The intricate evolution of landscapes over several millennia has gifted us with the magnificent Black Butte, Oregon mountains, crystalline springs, and tranquil meadows that comprise Black Butte Ranch’s magnificent natural scenery today.

Sisters, Oregon’s, Native Roots & Settlers’ History

Historians have found evidence of Native Americans migrating to what we know now as Sisters, Oregon, some 15,000 years ago. Native American oral history and a cache of bi-faced tools tell us that early Native migrants stayed at Paulina Springs during their travels from the Great Basin and Oregon Coast. Cattle and horse were first kept on a ranch in this area in 1880. Over the past two centuries, parts of the ranch have been renamed and switched owners several times, shifting the property’s shape over time. To learn more about the historical timeline of Sisters, Oregon, check out their historical page. 

Black Butte Ranch officially received its name in the early 20th century by a wealthy California man named Stewart S. Lowery. After the land switched owners a few more times, Brooks Resources officially took the title in January 1970 because they had a vision. They established a homeowners association intending to develop a community. Several years and renovations later, the Black Butte Ranch in Central Oregon proudly boasts several miles of private roadways and bike paths, 17 tennis courts, five swimming pools, two 18-hole championship golf courses, three restaurants, and a few on-site shops. 

Help Us Celebrate & Reminisce 50 Years at Black Butte Ranch

The Ranch’s rich and unique history and landscape provide our Oregon resort with a plethora of charm and character that keep people coming back for more. You’ll never run out of things to do at Black Butte Ranch as we offer numerous on-site amenities. Nothing compares to our fantastic lodging options. Consider the nostalgic stories of various homeowners through the years as they look back and reminisce on their time at Black Butte Ranch. If you’re interested in becoming a part of our history, share your stories, photos, and favorite memories with us by recording them in our newest additions: our coffee table book. For those too far away to share your stories in person, please send us an email filled with your treasured Black Butte Ranch memories and photos.