Echo, OR
Echo: Where History Blooms
The historic town of Echo is located in northeast Oregon, eight miles south of Hermiston and 20 miles west of Pendleton amid rolling farmland along the banks of the Umatilla River.
While not visible from the freeway, Echo is only a mile from exit 188, where I- 84 and Hwy. 395 meet. The town's population is 715 within the city limits and 1,200 within the library service area. Echo is known for its rich history and many historic sites. J.H. Koontz platted the town in 1880. He named it for his then three year old daughter, Echo.
More than a century later, Echo Koontz Miller is featured in our city logo.
History and Heritage
The Oregon Trail passes through Echo. Emigrants crossed the Umatilla River and camped at a site known as the Lower Crossing. Sometimes the emigrants would camp here for a few days to refresh their animals, do laundry or trade before starting across the dry, dusty desert to the west. This campsite is now the site of the Fort Henrietta Park, a National Historic Oregon Trail site. Exhibits at the park include a covered wagon display, interpretive panels with historic information on the trail and town history, Oregon Trails signs, antique fire equipment and RV Park and campground.
Photo Gallery
