Fossil, OR

The City of Fossil was incorporated in 1891. Named by Thomas B. Hoover, who was removing some fossil remains on his ranch at the time the small community post office was established. This suggested the name of the new office. The post office was established Feb. 28, 1876, at the ranch of Thomas B. Hoover, who was the first postmaster. Fossil is the county seat of Wheeler County and lies 20 miles south of Condon on Highway 19.

Fossil (pop. 470) is situated in a picturesque valley in the rolling foothills of the Cascades, just three hours from the Portland metropolitan area and two hours from Bend, Oregon.
The community is located midway along the 217-mile Journey Through Time– Oregon’s only official cultural and heritage tour route – which celebrates pristine fossil and geologic resources, Old West culture and charming small towns.

Fossil is also centrally located to the three separate units of the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument. Visitors from all over the world come to Fossil each year to dig fossils that are found strewn across a hillside behind Wheeler High School.  

Fossil serves as the Wheeler County seat and features a walking tour with many historic buildings, including the 1898 courthouse and three museums. A professional rodeo, bull riding and other western events are held each summer at the county fairgrounds at the edge of town. Other ongoing events include aregional bluegrass festival, a community-wide murder mystery, and golf tournaments at the nearby PGA-certified, six-hole Kinzua Hills golf course.

Fossil was one of the first communities in eastern Oregon to receive internet service and among the first to step up to DSL. Its public library recently expanded its size. A new county family services building was built a few years ago. Downtown buildings have been renovated and community spirit is strong. The city’s water system received a significant upgrade and a new well this year.

Wheeler County itself is among Oregon’s most beautiful counties. The wild and scenic designated John Day River runs through the county, known worldwide for its native salmon runs and exceptional bass fishing. Other recreation includes swimming, boating, hunting, photography and wildlife viewing.

Fossil is welcoming and inviting. The community features small town charm, nearly nonexistent crime and quality services – a great place to bring a family and business.

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