Walton Oregon, is an unincorporated community with a rich history rooted in the pioneering spirit of the 19th century. Located 30 miles east of Mapleton and halfway between Eugene and Florence on OR Rte 126, Walton’s origins are closely tied to the development of this route and the establishment of its post office in 1884.
Early Settlement and Naming
The construction of Route 126, which began in 1881, played a pivotal role in the area’s development. This route crossed the Oregon Coast Range near Noti and followed Walton Creek, a tributary of the Siuslaw River. The creek, and subsequently the community, was named after Joshua J. Walton, a prominent figure in the region’s early history. Walton was a pioneer lawyer who served as a county judge and a regent for the University of Oregon. The stream’s name was later changed to Wildcat Creek, but the community retained the Walton name.
Joshua J. Walton: A Pioneering Spirit
Joshua J. Walton’s journey to Oregon was marked by hardship and determination. His family settled in Eugene in 1858 after surviving the Rogue River Wars. Walton began his career in law in Eugene, eventually serving in various capacities including deputy district attorney, U.S. land commissioner, state legislator, and judge. His contributions to the community were significant, particularly his role in securing the University of Oregon for Eugene. Walton’s efforts in rallying the community to raise funds for the university’s first building, Deady Hall, were instrumental in its establishment.
Walton’s legacy extends beyond his professional achievements. He and his family’s pioneer past are commemorated in Eugene, with the Walton Complex at the University of Oregon named in his honor. His daughter Ada was among the first to attend the university, graduating in 1885, and his youngest child, Pauline, graduated in 1906 and later worked with the University library.
Walton Today
Today, Walton remains a small community in Lane County, reflecting the enduring legacy of its namesake and the pioneering spirit of its early settlers. Its history is a testament to the challenges and triumphs of those who sought to build a life in the Pacific Northwest during the 19th century.
Walton’s story is intertwined with the broader narrative of Oregon’s development, from the establishment of transportation routes to the founding of educational institutions. It serves as a reminder of the individuals and families whose efforts and sacrifices contributed to the shaping of the region.
Citations:
[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Walton,_Oregon
[2] https://around.uoregon.edu/oq/the-waltons
[3] https://ir.library.oregonstate.edu/downloads/9g54xh801
[4] https://www.oregonencyclopedia.org/articles/izaak_walton_league/
[5] https://cpfm.uoregon.edu/sites/default/files/walton_complex_05_31_07.pdf
[6] https://americanindiancoc.org/native-american-tribes-the-indian-history-in-walton-oregon/
