If Eugene, Oregon were a person instead of a city, "open-mindedness" would be his middle name. The ruggedly beautiful scenery of this area has drawn people from all over the world to enjoy the sports, arts and scenery that Eugene has to offer.
If you're thinking of moving to Eugene, you're not alone. This is the second-largest city in Oregon, and it boasts many attractions that make relocating to Eugene sound like an attractive idea. This region of Oregon is known for its temperate climate, with wet, mild winters and dry, warm summers. Perhaps the group most tempted to contact a few Eugene moving companies are American gardeners; they know that the temperate climate would allow them to grow plants that could otherwise only thrive in Hawaii or the southernmost parts of Florida.
Economy:
Eugene's location in the forests of Oregon makes lumber its most important industry. This region is America's largest source for softwood and plywood. Farming is also a vital source of income to local residents; important agricultural products from the area include beef, dairy, chickens and sheep. This has led to the establishment of several food processing plants in the area, and canned fruits and vegetables are an important export from Eugene to the rest of the U.S.
Tourism is also important to the city's economy. The nearby rugged Cascades coasts draw thousands of nature enthusiasts, hikers and mountain-bikers each year. The Willamette Valley around Eugene is also known for its acres of vineyards, and wine-tasting tours bring many tourist dollars into the local area.
History:
Mr. Eugene F. Skinner built a small cabin near Skinner's Butte in 1846, and founded the town of Eugene City in 1853. (City leaders later shortened the town's name to Eugene.) He was aided in his labor by Judge D. M. Risdon. Through the judge's efforts, the town was soon designated as the seat of Lane County, and the first post office was built there in the same year. The University of Oregon was established in Eugene in 1876, only a few decades after Mr. Skinner established his town.
The steamship was the first means of trade between Eugene and other cities, particularly Portland. The construction of the Oregon and California Railway soon made the steamship route obsolete, and modernization continued at a fast pace. By the end of the American Civil War, Eugene was considered a heavily industrialized town. Logging was the most important source of income from the town's inception, and Eugene was soon crowded with lumber mills and box factories.
Tourism:
Downtown Eugene has recently seen a revitalization. Its eclectic boutiques and art galleries are a pleasant place to while away an afternoon. Visitors who come on the first Friday of any month can experience the monthly Art Walk, which features artists' receptions and special performances by local bands.
Eugene also offers plenty of entertainment to sports enthusiasts. The McKenzie and Willamette Rivers are great places for fishing and boating, and Eugene also boasts 2,600 acres of public open spaces and more than 100 public parks. If you prefer spectator sports, attend a football game at Autzen Stadium or take in a track-and-field event at Hayward Field. Eugene calls itself "The World's Greatest City of Arts and Outdoors," so if you are relocating to Eugene, you're sure to find a great way to spend your days.