National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center set to reopen after major renovations
By Joe Hathaway on Friday, May 10th, 2024 in More Top Stories Northeastern Oregon News
BAKER CITY — After several years, one of the area’s most popular attractions is ready to reopen its doors after a major makeover.
The National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center (NHOTIC) is gearing up for its grand reopening on May 24, marking a significant milestone after a lengthy closure due to renovations that began in 2021 and concluded in late 2023. The center, which has been temporarily housed at the Baker Heritage Museum during this period, will finally welcome visitors back to its original location.
A recent sneak peek event held on Wednesday, May 8th, offered local media and community representatives a first look at the upgraded facilities. Attendees included government officials, Bureau of Land Management representatives, community members, rangers, NHOTIC leaders, and project manager Sarah Sherman.
“We’re here for the community. The community wanted us here, and we’re glad to continue on with that foundation and those relationships,” said Sherman. “It means a lot for tourism here in Baker County, and it means a lot to the BLM as an agency.”
The focus of the renovation primarily centered on structural improvements, such as upgrading the HVAC system and enhancing the building envelope, including the roof, windows, and doors. Despite these significant changes, project leaders say the exterior of the center has been carefully maintained to harmonize with the surrounding landscape.
NHOTIC, administered by the Bureau of Land Management, holds a unique distinction as a collaborative effort between the government and the local community.
“If you want to do something new and different and innovative, it can be a real challenge,” said Dave Hunsaker, Former Project Manager then Director of NHOTIC for 9 years “This place up here was an example agency-wide throughout the entire United States, wherever BLM administered public lands, for visitor centers, community support, and impact.”
Looking ahead, NHOTIC leaders say they’re embarking on several exciting new projects aimed at enhancing its exhibits. Collaborating with 270 Consulting, efforts are underway to expand the representation of Indigenous cultures within the center’s informational offerings.
Additionally, plans are underway for further upcoming projects slated to be completed over the next few years. The National Park Service has contributed grants to update site videos played within the center and to enhance surrounding signage.
“It would never have happened if somebody in the agency just got a bright idea to have a visitor center out here on top of this lonesome hill, it just would have never happened,” said Hunsaker. “A local group that got together had a vision for economic development, heritage and tourism, economic benefit, and to serve as not only stewards, but as good hosts to people that come and visit.”
In another noteworthy development, management of the Friends of the National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center has transitioned to the Crossroads Carnegie Art Center. As part of this new partnership, a revamped gift shop named the Lone Pine Mercantile will debut. Managed by a full-time shop manager, the mercantile will feature locally sourced items from creators in the area, including products from Peterson’s Chocolate and Cheese Fairy, among others.
“Visitors here can look forward to a renewed and enriched experience, blending history with modern amenities,” said Sherman. “The reopening marks a significant moment for Baker City and the broader community, celebrating the preservation and exploration of Oregon’s storied past along the historic Oregon Trail.”
