Re-named after a respected U.S. Senator, Johnathon Bourne, the town was formerly known as Cracker. The main street was the only street in town because vertical cliffs on either side prevented further development other than the remaining two directions. A post office was established in 1895. Cracker was a typical gold mining town not much different than any other. The turn of the century saw a Cracker, now Bourne, turn to dishonest speculating schemes that produced nothing. Bourne continued its decline and in 1927 the post office closed signaling the approaching end. In 1937, heavy rains caused a flood that finished Bourne for good. However, enough remains to make Bourne a very interesting visit.

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Baker County | Eastern Oregon