Crook County Historical Society Prineville Oregon

“Our goal is to inspire, entertain, educate and involve our local community, as well as visitors from all over the world, in the stewardship of our unique history.”

The Crook County Historical Society serves as the foundation for preserving, interpreting, and sharing the history of Prineville and the greater Central Oregon region. As the organization behind the Bowman Museum and the expanding Crook County History Center campus, the Society plays a central role in ensuring that the stories, artifacts, and heritage of the area are protected and accessible for generations to come.

Crook County Historical Society Preserves and shares regional history through museums, exhibits, and programs serving Prineville and Central Oregon. The cornerstone of exploring and expanding the local and regional history.

Formed to collect and safeguard local history, the Society operates not only as a steward of artifacts, but as an active community resource. Through exhibits, research opportunities, educational programming, and public events, it connects residents and visitors to the people, industries, and events that shaped Crook County—from early pioneer life and ranching to transportation, timber, and regional development.

The Society’s work extends across multiple sites and initiatives, including the historic A.R. Bowman Museum—housed in the former Crook County Bank building—and expanded exhibit spaces like the Belknap Exhibit Center. These facilities allow the organization to grow beyond static displays, offering rotating exhibits, traveling collections, and deeper storytelling opportunities that keep local history relevant and engaging.

Funding and support for the Historical Society have long been rooted in a combination of community backing, grants, and local investment. From early volunteer-led operations to voter-supported funding measures and national-level grants, the Society reflects a sustained community commitment to preserving its identity and heritage.

Today, the Crook County Historical Society continues to evolve—balancing preservation with progress. Its mission goes beyond maintaining artifacts; it actively shapes how history is experienced, understood, and shared within the community. Through its leadership, Crook County’s past remains a living, accessible part of everyday life.