Exploring Jackson County

Is there a better way to start a summer morning than playing near the beautiful Ashland Creek? We played on the big toy for a bit, early this morning, before heading to historic Jacksonville to participate in an African Drum Circle! It was part of the Jackson County Libaries Summer Kids' Program. I goofed and took us to the wrong branch initially, so we got there a little late. But not too late to participate! There was one empty drum so Leila had a spot! 

The storyteller is the woman in the center of this picture with the blue shirt on. She was so engaging! She would tell an African story and play the drum to go along with the story. The kids mimicked her playing thus becoming part of the story.

We left the library and headed across town to see the Butte Creek Mill. More on that in a second. Without realizing it, we traveled on Old Stage Road. This is where my Mom and family grew up. We passed my Grammy and Papa's old house and barn. I had to put this picture in for my family. 

Back to the mill... Butte Creek Mill was built in 1872. It's still in use today! It's the only old-time mill that still grinds flour in the state of Oregon! 

Right next to it is a bridge built in 1922. Its one of Oregon's historic landmarks. 

 And to round out our day's historic tour of Jackson County, we drove a mile down the road to see the Wood House. Built in the late 1800s, it's been recently restored to keep it from falling apart. Before leaving the mill, we walked next door to the museum and I asked the curator how far away the house was. She smiled and said not far at all and then proceeded to tell me her great-grandfather built that house! She was so tickled that we were interested in it that she told us its history and gave us a picture of it. 

The Tavern girls really enjoyed our day!