Double-O Ranch Historic District

The Double-O Ranch Historic District is a complex of two preserved buildings from the 1880s near Harney Lake in Oregon's remote interior. The log cabin and blacksmith shop sit on an open site of roughly 10 acres within the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge.

The property was founded in 1875 and grew into an influential cattle operation under cattleman Bill Hanley's leadership across decades. The United States Government purchased the land in 1941 and integrated it into the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge system.

The ranch's name comes from the cattle brand featuring two connected O marks that identified multiple owners' livestock. The place reflects an era when large cattle operations served as social gathering points in this remote landscape.

The site sits roughly 25 miles southwest of Burns and is reached by driving through rural roads in the refuge. Access depends on wildlife refuge hours and conditions, so checking beforehand helps ensure a smooth visit.

The Northern Paiute people used the surrounding wetlands for thousands of years before the ranch was established. This deep indigenous presence underlies the visible ranching remains at the site.

Location: Oregon

GPS coordinates: 43.27750,-119.31000

Latest update: December 14, 2025 11:00