Old Whitney

    The town of  Whitney, Oregon is listed as a ghost town, located in Baker County.

 It is on the North Fork of the Burnt River near the Blue Mountains and the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest. The town was named after C.H. Whitney. Founded as a logging town and was plated in 1900. Logging and Gold Mining faded in the area in the 1940's. 

Now, a few weathered buildings remain. However what a photographers and artist dream!

 I recently spent time hiking around the old buildings and the beautiful high prairie that surrounds it.

 As you know I am currently painting the "History of the National Forest Service" and while I was exploring one of the homes they had several packing mules in a corral.

 Standing on the front porch was a very nice man named Dave.

 I asked him if he would let me photograph his mules. He was delighted and opened up his corral.

 What an unexpected treat for me! Dave introduced them by name and two were very friendly!

What a photo opportunity for me. So many of the NFS paintings have mules in them! Dave was so gracious and turned them the way I needed them. The photo below is of "Ms. B". She was very friendly😊

Dave graduated from Redmond High School and he grew up in the house he and his wife live in.

 He bought it back several years ago.

 He lives on the high prairie all year long and packs into the wilderness with his mules.

 His knowledge of the area is overwhelming. Dave's ranch is covered with his family history and he takes great pride in sharing the stories.

  I could have spent all day listening to him. What a treasure! 

After I left I thought to myself what a great place I find myself living in. The stories that I am discovering around each and every corner and the people that live here are a gift. Life can take us all on adventures as long as we open the door. I know I am only here for a moment of time....but I am going to keep exploring.....you just never know where the next "Painting Story" will unfold!

Thank-you Dave!

Your Artist Friend,

Jennifer Lake