Gateway to the pacific
History
Drain is 8 miles west of Interstate 5 halfway between Eugene and Roseburg. The coast is 55 miles west. Portland is 140 miles north. Pass Creek and Elk Creek run through Drain and feed into the Umpqua River. State Highway 38 is considered one of the most scenic highways in Oregon.
History
The original townsite of Drain was settled in 1847 by Warren Goodell who received 320 acres as a Donation Land Grant from the U.S. government. Goodell’s claim was long and narrow in order to encompass as much of the valley’s bottom land as possible. This claim was sold to Jesse Applegate (Oregon Trail) in 1858. Charles C. Drain emigrated from the midwest and purchased the land in 1861.
Topography
Low coastal mountains with small valleys and clear run-off streams. Flora: Heavily forested with Douglas Fir and other species of hard and soft woods. Native grasses, flowers and berries.
Climate
Mild Average temperatures: January – 40F July – 67F Average annual rainfall: 47 inches Elevation: 292 feet Area: City of Drain is one square mile.
The Town
Drain Oregon is a historic northwest timber community first settled in 1847. The city was incorporated in 1888, and John Drain was the first mayor. Located 8 miles west of Interstate 5, halfway between Roseburg and Eugene. Drain provides a major access to the Oregon coast on scenic State Highway 38.
Victorian houses, covered bridges, scenic highways and community activities provide many attractions for tourists. Affordable housing, low tax rates in Douglas County and a low cost of living make Drain one of the most desirable retirement communities in Oregon.
With a stable population of 1,100 over the past 60 years, a rural lifestyle awaits you. Population 2010 = 1,151. The University of Oregon, shopping malls and urban events are less than one hour away. Drain provides many opportunities for business relocation. Close interstate access. Interesting fact: The last California Condor sighting in Oregon was in Drain in 1904.
Local Newspapers
The Herald, The Beacon , The News Review, The Register Guard
Important Addresses
City of Drain
P. O. Box 158; Drain, OR 97435
City of Drain Website
Drain Library
205 West A, Drain, OR 97435
Yoncalla Library
281 Front, Yoncalla, OR 97499
MOre info
X
Bridges
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Schools
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Churches
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The Schools
State Normal School
Drain’s first school district was organized in 1861, eleven years before the town was established. This became Oregon school district No. 22. Almost 140 years later, the North Douglas School District No. 22 still serves the residents of the community.
Fun Fact
This building burned down in X, The bell from this building sits in front of the current Elementary School. “Meet me at the Bell”
The Drain Academy
(Site 1 block North of the business section of Drain. Near the Loose Caboose Novelty Shop)
The Drain Academy was built in 1883. The I.O.O.F. purchased the building in 1893 and the Central Oregon Normal School was established. The north wing was added on in 1905 as student attendance had grown to 150. The school was closed in 1908, and moved to Monmouth in Polk County. The population of Drain dropped to 350 shortly after the move.
Fun Fact
The elementary and middle school now occupy the site where the original Normal School was built. The school district has about 500 students in grades K-12. This district office is in the “Drain Castle.”