1962 Map of Sherars Bridge

About this map

Sherars Bridge serves as a historic crossing point over the Deschutes River, where the canyon walls drop steeply from the heights of Tygh Ridge. This early 1960s landscape is defined by the sharp contrast between the high wheat lands and the deeply entrenched river valley, which forms the boundary between Wasco and Sherman Counties. The river corridor is a hub of mid-century transportation infrastructure, featuring the Spokane Portland and Seattle and Oregon Trunk railroad lines hugging the water's edge. Evidence of pioneer and rural development is scattered throughout the uplands, from the Warner Cemetery to various springs and the Highline Ditch irrigation works. Smaller settlements like Sherar and the edge of Tygh Valley are documented alongside family-named landmarks and watercourses such as Winter Water Creek and Elder Creek, providing a detailed look at the rural economy of north-central Oregon.