The Smallest Neighborhood Association in Bend
Located in the heart of the city, the Old Bend District includes downtown Bend, residential neighborhoods, and is approximately 1 square mile. Old Bend is bordered to the west by the Deschutes River; to the north by Drake Park, Mirror Pond, and Franklin Avenue; to the east by Highway 97; and to the south by Arizona Avenue. Although Old Bend is the smallest neighborhood association within city limits, it is home to critical routes for daily commuters, recreationalists, bikers, pedestrians, and commercial traffic.
Includes 3 City Parks & 2 Historical Districts
3 City Parks
- Drake Park and Mirror Pond
- Miller Landing Park & Garden
- St Helen’s Place Park (smallest park)
2 Historical Districts
- Old Town Historic District
- Drake Park Neighborhood Historic District
Do You Live, Work or Play in Old Bend District?
Check your address on this interact map. If you work, live, or own property within the Old Bend Neighborhood, you are already considered a member of OBNA! Join our community by registering as a member and sign up for our newsletter.
Change Over the Years
The City of Bend has undergone many changes, booms, and population growths over the last 200 years. Here’s just a sampling:
The Township of Bend, 1904
A stockman named John Sisemore bought land in 1881, established the area’s post office at the ranch in 1886, and created a Sisemore Road to connect with the Cascade Wagon Road. By 1904, Sisemore built the first public bridge across the Deschutes River to help to stimulate ranch business.
City of Bend, 1926
In 1905, the city of Bend incorporated and was mainly populated by mill workers, their families, and small businesses. Old Bend has always been prized as a very walkable city.
City of Bend, 1960
The city center began in the bend of the river, where downtown Bend currently is, and expanded northwest, following the location of the lumber mills.
City of Bend, 1970s
By the 1970s, the city of Bend’s footprint expanded east toward Pilot Butte into what is now known as the Orchard District.
City of Bend, 2020
Bend’s population has grown significantly in the 21st century, and will continue to grow and change. That’s why getting involved with your neighborhood association and engaging with city council is imperative.
Photo credit: McKayla Camp, Unsplash