The history of Sisters begins with Camp Polk which was established as a military post in 1865 in response to the Paiute Indian wars that were raging throughout eastern Oregon during the 1860s and 70s. Named after the Oregon county from which the camp’s commanding officer hailed, it consisted of a group of cabins along the west bank of Squaw Creek (recently renamed Whychus Creek), about three miles northeast of Sisters' present location. The troops spent the winter of 1865-66 there. After finding that there was no Indian problem, they left. Around 1870, the area was homesteaded by Samuel Hindeman who also ran the post office. The post office at Camp Polk was moved to the present site of Sisters in 1888, and the name was changed to Sisters after the magnificent Three Sisters mountains that dominate its western skyline. (From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia - with minor modifications and additions.) Present day Sisters, carrying on its pioneers' heritage, has a quintessential old west theme which gives the town a unique and appealing flair. In spite of the 1880s facades, Sisters is a thoroughly modern and progressive community. The Sisters school district is "one of the most successful and highly acclaimed school districts of its size in the state of Oregon – not only for academics, activities and sports, but also for community, parent, and business partnership support." Sisters offers visitors and residents alike an eclectic assortment of shops, restaurants and the finest art galleries to be found anywhere in Central Oregon. If you're an antique buff, Sisters is heaven on earth. Whether you're looking for fine clothing and accessories, western wear, that special objet d'art or a nice gift for a friend or relative back home, you'll find what you're looking for in Sisters. Like all the communities of Central Oregon, Sisters is located in an outdoor recreation paradise. To learn about the amazing variety of recreational opportunities available in the area, visit the websites listed below and our "Sports and Recreation" Section. The weather in Sisters is not too dissimilar from that of other Central Oregon communities. However, due to its proximity to the Central Cascade Range, the average annual precipitation at Sisters is greater than most areas - 14 inches compared to 8.6 inches at Redmond, only 20 miles to the east and 100 feet lower in elevation, and less than 12 inches at Bend which is more than 500 feet higher. Sisters is a "happening" place year round although things do slow down in the winter months. Between May and October, however, special events abound: The world famous Outdoor Quilt Show, the PRCA Rodeo, the Folk Festival, the Jazz Festival and the community's showcase, Starry Nights just to name a few. There are many interesting and scenic attractions around Sisters. Here's a short list in the "don't miss" category: The Wizard Falls Fish Hatchery, the Metolius Recreation Area including delightful Camp Sherman, the sparkling Metolius River, McKenzie Pass and Santiam Pass Scenic Byways and beautiful Suttle Lake. If you're a visitor to Central Oregon or a new resident of the area, don't overlook Sisters. It's truly an amazing place. |
